Character Analysis: Gertrude

1. "Do not forever with thy vailed lids seek for thy noble father in the dust. Thou know'st 'tis common; all that lives must die, passing through nature to eternity." (I.2.70-73)
  Gertrude is saying this to Hamlet as she sees him so upset and still grieving. I understand that she does not like to see her son upset, but this line makes her seem very inconsiderate to his feelings. She is basically telling Hamlet that there is no point in being upset anymore because his father is never coming back.

2. "And for your part, Ophelia, I do wish that your good beauties be the happy cause of Hamlet's wildness. So shall I hope your virtues will bring him to his wonted way again, to both your honors." (III.1.38-42)
   Gertrude is talking to Ophelia in the castle. The Queen says that she hopes Ophelia's looks is the reason for Hamlet's craziness and that he will return to normal soon. This quote makes me think that Gertrude really did like Ophelia for her son. I think she really meant what she was saying and that she hoped Ophelia and Hamlet would end up together.

3. "O Hamlet, speak no more. Thou turn'st mine eyes into my very soul, And there I see such black and grained spots as will not leave their tinct." (III.4.89-92)
   Gertrude says this to her son as he yells at her for what she has done. I feel bad for Gertrude. Yes, she should not have married her husband's brother. And she should not have married him so soon after her husband died. She made a mistake; but I think she knows it and feels guilty about it. But here's Hamlet, attacking his mother for what she has done. She is so upset because of the harsh words that Hamlet is saying to her.

4. "'A weeps for what is done." (IV.1.27)
   Gertrude is talking to Claudius about what Hamlet has done. Hamlet murdered Polonius, without knowing it was him, and Hamlet did not feel bad about it at all. However, to stick up for him, Gertrude tells Claudius that Hamlet is so upset and guilty for what he has done. Gertrude is torn between her son and her husband. Her husband wants him dead, which is hard because Gertrude is obviously going to love her son no matter what.

5. "To my sick soul (as sin's true nature is) each toy seems prologue to some great amiss; so full of artless jealousy is guilt it spills itself in fearing to be spilt." (IV.5.17-20)
   Gertrude is talking to herself before Ophelia comes into the room. Gertrude clearly has a lot on her mind, and she is clearly guilty for her sin. She says that she feels sick from her sin and that every event that takes place has the opportunity to turn into a disaster. Gertrude is basically living in fear.