Act 3, Scene 3
Claiming that Hamlet's lunacy is a hazard to the state and his reign, King Claudius orders Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to escort Hamlet on the voyage to England. Polonius reports that he will spy on Hamlet's visit to Queen Gertrude by stowing himself behind an arras (curtain) in her bedroom.
Tormented by his guilty conscience, King Claudius attempts to pray for forgiveness. However, because he still possesses the fruits of his crime - namely his crown, his queen, and his ambition - he knows that his repentance is inadequate. Claudius laments, "'My words fly up, my thoughts remain below. / Words without thoughts never to heaven go.'" Act 3, Scene 3, lines 97-98
As the guilty King kneels in prayer, Hamlet silently draws his sword for revenge. Halting, Hamlet realizes that killing Claudius in the midst of confession would send the unburdened King straight to heaven. Revenge will come later for Hamlet, when King Claudius is engaged in some vile or lustful act, and is thus wholly accountable for his sins.
Topic Tracking: Spying 6
Topic Tracking: Suicide 4
Topic Tracking: Disease 5
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