#4

 Shakespeare's use of the soliloquy helps to demonstrate change in character.  In the case of young Hamlet, the soliloquy demonstrates a transformation to being proactive.  Up until now Hamlet has remained passive in his actions.  He chooses to play mad in order to play upon the conscious of his uncle.  After seeing the playing of an actor with great affectation Hamlet reexamines how he is handling vengeance.  He realizes that he is too passive in his actions, he must seize the time that he has and get to work on his plan of action.  It is at this moment that Hamlet's character becomes reminiscent of Iago from Othello, he becomes manipulative: "I'll have these players/ Play something like the murder of my father/ Before mine uncle.  I'll observe his looks;/ I'll tent him to the quick" (II.II.623-626).  Hamlet's words are just like those of Iago's.  Hamlet talks of his uncle and those around him as if they are chess pieces in a game.  He plans to move them around in order to find out the truth.   The difference between Hamlet and Iago is that Hamlet's stratagem of manipulation does not come out of a place of malice.  It comes from a want for justice.  He wants to avenge the wrongful murder of his father.  Secondly Hamlet has motive for what he plans to do where Iago did not.  Hamlet's motive is justified, he must make right what is wrong.  He plans to take a life for a life and if manipulation is the key then so be it.