Gertrude

Definition

Gertrude is a pivotal character in Shakespeare's play 'Hamlet,' serving as the Queen of Denmark and mother to Hamlet. Her actions and decisions significantly influence Hamlet's character development and psychological complexity, particularly through her relationships and moral ambiguity regarding her marriage to Claudius shortly after King Hamlet's death.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gertrude’s marriage to Claudius raises questions about her loyalty and morality, particularly in light of her previous relationship with King Hamlet.
2. Her character often embodies the theme of appearance versus reality, as she appears to be oblivious to the corrupt nature of her new husband and the political intrigue around her.
3. Gertrude's interactions with Hamlet reveal much about his psychological state, as he oscillates between love, resentment, and disappointment towards her.
4. In Act 3, Gertrude confronts Hamlet about his behavior, indicating her concern for him but also showcasing her denial about the grave implications of her choices.
5. Her tragic end, drinking from the poisoned cup meant for Hamlet, emphasizes her role as a victim caught in the web of corruption and betrayal that surrounds the Danish court.

Review Questions

• How does Gertrude's relationship with Claudius affect Hamlet's perception of women and his own mother?
  • Gertrude's hasty marriage to Claudius deeply impacts Hamlet's view of women, leading him to generalize that all women are unfaithful and fickle. This perception is exacerbated by his feelings of betrayal since he sees Gertrude as morally compromised for marrying his uncle so soon after his father's death. As a result, Hamlet develops a complex mix of affection, disappointment, and disgust towards his mother, which complicates his quest for revenge.
• Discuss the significance of Gertrude's character in illustrating themes of power and corruption within the play.
  • Gertrude's character serves as a focal point for exploring themes of power and corruption in 'Hamlet.' By marrying Claudius, she becomes complicit in his political machinations, which directly leads to Hamlet’s existential crisis. Her actions reflect a morally ambiguous stance that highlights how personal desires can intertwine with political ambitions. This duality complicates her role as a mother and queen, revealing how individual choices can have profound implications on the broader political landscape.
• Evaluate Gertrude's ultimate fate in 'Hamlet' and its implications for understanding her character's complexity within the narrative.
  • Gertrude's demise—drinking poison meant for Hamlet—serves as a tragic culmination of her character arc, underscoring her complexity and innocence amidst the chaos. This moment illustrates that while she may have made questionable choices, she is ultimately a victim of the very corruption she inadvertently supported. Her death reflects the consequences of moral ambiguity in leadership and highlights how individuals can be swept away by larger forces beyond their control. This tragic end prompts a reevaluation of Gertrude not just as a flawed mother but also as a poignant representation of the fallout from unchecked ambition within the court.

Related terms

Hamlet: The protagonist of the play, Hamlet is the Prince of Denmark who grapples with themes of revenge, madness, and existentialism following the death of his father.

Claudius: The antagonist and Hamlet's uncle, Claudius murders King Hamlet to seize the throne and marries Gertrude, embodying themes of betrayal and corruption.

Ophelia: A key female character who is Hamlet's love interest, Ophelia's relationship with Gertrude adds layers to the exploration of femininity and madness in the play.