5.4.1

Word Usage & Hendiadys

Test yourself

Shakespeare's Use of Words & Hendiadys in Hamlet

In writing his own version of a play that had already existed on the English stage for years, much of Shakespeare’s creative energy went into the language of the play rather than its plotting.

Illustrative background for New words in *Hamlet*Illustrative background for New words in *Hamlet* ?? "content

New words in Hamlet

  • In Hamlet, Shakespeare used and invented more words than he had ever done in a single play before.
  • According to the scholar Alfred Hart, Shakespeare used almost 600 words that he had never used before, an exceptionally high number (in his previous tragedy, Julius Caesar, it was 70).
  • Hart also estimated that Shakespeare invented around 170 new words or phrases in the play. Whatever Shakespeare wanted to dramatize in this new version of the Hamlet story, he often needed to find new language to express it.
Illustrative background for What is hendiadys? Illustrative background for What is hendiadys?  ?? "content

What is hendiadys?

  • One of the most striking uses of language in the play is the use of hendiadys. This is a pattern of language where two nouns are paired together to express a single idea e.g. “Law and Order”.
  • Shakespeare uses hendiadys in Hamlet far more than in any other play. Scholars have found 66 examples compared to the next highest total, 28, in Othello.
Illustrative background for Examples of hendiadys in *Hamlet*Illustrative background for Examples of hendiadys in *Hamlet* ?? "content

Examples of hendiadys in Hamlet

  • “Angels and ministers of grace defend us” (Act 1 Scene 4)
  • “The book and volume of my brain” (Act 1 Scene 5)
  • “A fantasy or trick of fame” (Act 4 Scene 4)
Illustrative background for Analysis of hendiadys in *Hamlet*Illustrative background for Analysis of hendiadys in *Hamlet* ?? "content

Analysis of hendiadys in Hamlet

  • In these phrases, the two nouns modify each other or balance each other out. They help to create a sense that, in the world of Hamlet, it is difficult to pin down truth or meaning.
  • When used by Hamlet himself, the effect is of someone striving to ‘fix’ a precise meaning on events but of ultimately being caught between two opposing ideas.
  • The use of hendiadys seems appropriate for a character who, for much of the play, seems unable to decide on one course of action.

Jump to other topics

1Introduction

2Plot Summary

3Character Profiles

4Key Themes

5Writing Techniques

6Context

7Critical Debates

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson