Appearance vs. Reality

The theme, appearance vs reality is clearly demonstrated through the characters Hamlet and his mother. In the beginning of the play, Hamlet attempts to confront his mother and open up to her about his depressions. However, she responds saying his sadness is only his appearance (black clothing and depressed facial expression). Hamlet tries to explain himself further and he details how his external sadness is only a reflection of his internal sorrow. He tries to tell his mother how he is truly upset. UNfortunately, she continues to submit to King Claudius and remains clueless to her sons emotions. She, as well as Claudius, bullies him about shamefully unleashing his emotions in public and finally convinces him to conceal them in public.