Questions #7 and # 14

Question #7:
Hamlet implies that he will put on an “antic disposition” (I.v.172) because his plan to get revenge on king Claudius causes him to develop manic behavior. Hamlet was forced to disguise his depression by acting out manically however this reaction is also a strategy for hamlet. Though Hamlet seems to be vulnerable to the audience, he plans to get revenge on king Claudius though his craziness.

Question #14:
In act II, scene II, hamlet says, "why, then, 'tis none to you; for there is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so." In this scene, hamlet is trying portray himself as depressed and vulnerable. Ever since his fathers death he never felt as comfortable in his own home. Especially after having to watch his mother marry his uncle the same day of the funeral. However, underneath the surface, he clearly is not mentally insane, as one would infer from his manic behavior. Rather, his mind is soli concentrated on getting his revenge on King Claudius. A man who can decipher when to act crazy, is not actually mentally ill. Instead, his intelligence is revealed. Hamlet continues to play this 2-faced character, however, the possibility still remains of him becoming what he religiously pretends to be.
Hamlet also states, "I am mad north-west: when the wind is southerly I know a hake from a handsaw." (2.2.330-331). This quote further demonstrates hamlets control over his appearance and his behavior. He is in control of his behavior at the moment but the question is.. When will he fall for his own deceit.