Our class discussions on Hamlet so far have been extremely helpful in understanding the text.   We always find an interesting topic to debate.  It's usually a comfortable environment, and when I have question like "What were Hamlet's thoughts in this moment?", I'm able to ask it and have it answered.   The two films we've been watching are also very useful.  They're different from one another, so it's an interesting contrast.

    Surprisingly, I'm really enjoying Hamlet.  There are many smaller plots inside of the larger one.  The emotions and relationships in the play are constantly changing, which keeps me absored in the text.  In Act 4, it has become clear to me that Hamlet is actually a coward.  Even after being told of his father's murder and reminded, he still hasn't avenged it.  Laertes, on the other hand, within a few days of hearing of his father's death, was in the palace questioning the king and swearing to kill the murderer.  In the beginning of the play, I would have guessed that Hamlet would have killed Claudius by now, judging by his evident agression and madness.  However, it seems he has simmered down and is waiting to see how Polonius' murder will "play out."