Paper discusses the ways in which the play Hamlet frames homosocial relationships, arguing that the homosocial relationship of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern serves as a counterpoint to the Neo-Platonic friendship represented by Horatio.
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Paper discusses the ways in which the play Hamlet frames homosocial relationships, arguing that the homosocial relationship of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern serves as a counterpoint to the Neo-Platonic friendship represented by Horatio.
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24 p.
Notes
Abstract: The Tragedy of Hamlet argues that homosocial relationships are not true friendships and can help support corrupt institutions Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, who embody homosocial relationships in the play, serve as a counterpoint to the true Neo-Platonic friendship represented by Horatio. Because they favor passion over reason, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are unable to become individuals. They are instead a gross parody of Neo-Platonic friendship, so close to each other they have lost all individuality. Their relationship is not an expression of their virtue as Hamlet and Horatio’s is. Hamlet and Horatio remain individuals, opposed to the corrupt Danish Court while Rosencrantz and Guildenstern choose to become the faceless tools of patriarchy. By rejecting Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, Hamlet rejects the passions that dominate his relationship with them.
This article is part of the following collections of related materials.
The Eagle Feather
Launched in 2004 by UNT's Honors College, The Eagle Feather was an interdisciplinary undergraduate research journal that promoted the work of students and their faculty mentors. The Eagle Feather was published annually until 2017 when it transitioned into the North Texas Journal of Undergraduate Research.
This collection presents scholarly and artistic content created by undergraduate students. All materials have been previously accepted by a professional organization or approved by a faculty mentor. Most classroom assignments are not eligible for inclusion. The collection includes, but is not limited to Honors College theses, thesis supplemental files, professional presentations, articles, and posters. Some items in this collection are restricted to use by the UNT community.
