How Hamlet is both a cautious and volatile character

1. The first half of our class focused on the traditional image of the “Hero” as traced through the ancient texts: a
   larger-than-life figure, often of elevated status and representing a country or people, who often fails in some
   way in his mission due to a fatal flaw: more often than not, excessive pride. Does the character of Beowulf fits
   into this definition and does he differ in some ways from the classical mold?
2. Consider how Hamlet is both a cautious and volatile character. On one hand he seemingly delays seeking
   the revenge his father’s ghost demands in killing Claudius; on the other hand, he shows no hesitation when
   accidentally killing Polonius or sending Rosencrantz and Gildenstern to their deaths, or purposefully putting on
   the “antic disposition” around Ophelia, who is driven to true madness. Why do you think this is, and how far can
   Hamlet be held accountable for his actions?
3. Compare Oroonoko as a fictional “man of action” to the real-life narrative of Frederick Douglass – “man of
   intellect.” And, in what ways do both works support the Abolitionist cause?
4. F. Scott Fitzgerald writes, “Show me a hero, and I’ll show you a tragedy.” Choose one of the works we have
   read during this second part class (Beowulf, Hamlet, Oroonoko, and Douglass’ Narrative) and support why you
   believe this quote to be true or not.

Sample Solution