Act 3 Scene 4

This scene begins with Gertrude and Polonius doing some final plotting. Just before Hamlet comes to talk to his mother, Polonius hides behind the tapestry to spy on the conversation. Initially, Hamlet provides very short and bitter replies to Gertrude’s questions, and is clearly distressed with her life choices lately. She starts by accusing him of being a bad son, but Hamlet soon jumps on the offensive and makes Gertrude fear for her life. She calls out for help, at which point Hamlet discovers that something is behind the tapestry. He doesn’t yet realise that it is Polonius. Hamlet calls, “how now, a rat?” and stabs him through the tapestry. Both Polonius and Gertrude are shocked at the “rash and bloody deed,” which ultimately leads to Polonius’ death. However, Hamlet doesn’t demonstrate immediate guilt for stabbing Polonius, and in fact blames Polonius for being such a busybody (i.e. “Thou find’st to be too busy is some danger”). This murder is probably one of the most disturbing moments of the entire play. His contemplation and reflection about the big questions in life are now overshadowed by this reckless behaviour and callous disregard for Polonius’ life. He can no longer come across as someone with superior morals.