Ask Shakespeare

Hamlet: “Get thee to a nunnery. Why wouldst thou be a breeder of sinners?”

In William Shakespeare’s *Hamlet*, the line “Get thee to a nunnery. Why wouldst thou be a breeder of sinners?” is spoken by the troubled prince during a pivotal encounter with Ophelia, a moment rich with emotional complexity and philosophical depth. This quote encapsulates a range of themes, including the nature of morality, the conflict between appearance and reality, and the pervasive sense of disillusionment that permeates the play.

At first glance, Hamlet’s command to Ophelia to retreat to a nunnery suggests a desire to protect her from the corruptions of the world. However, a deeper analysis reveals a more complex interplay of emotions and ideas. Hamlet is grappling with his own feelings of betrayal and disillusionment—not only about his mother, Gertrude, who has hastily remarried after the death of his father, but also about the nature of women and love. By urging Ophelia to go to a nunnery, he implies that the world is rife with sin and that engaging in romantic relationships only perpetuates this cycle. The term “nunnery” itself, while initially evoking a place of purity, was also slang for a brothel in Shakespeare’s time, adding an ironic twist to his words.

The literary devices at play here are telling. Shakespeare employs juxtaposition in Hamlet’s contrasting views of women and virtue, revealing his internal conflict. The repetition of “honest” and “fair” earlier in the dialogue underscores Hamlet’s skepticism about sincerity and beauty, suggesting that he views them as mutually exclusive. This tension is further emphasized by Hamlet’s self-deprecating admission of his own moral failings, where he describes himself as “proud, revengeful, ambitious,” a confessional moment that exposes his vulnerabilities while simultaneously projecting them onto Ophelia.

Historically, *Hamlet* was written during the Elizabethan era, a time rife with debates about gender roles and morality. Women were often viewed through a lens of purity or promiscuity, and Hamlet’s harsh admonition reflects the societal expectations of women to uphold virtue and chastity. The phrase “breeder of sinners” suggests a view of women primarily as vessels of temptation and sin, reflecting the patriarchal attitudes of the time. Hamlet’s desire to isolate Ophelia from a corrupt world can be interpreted as a misguided attempt to shield her from the very moral decay he himself embodies.

The themes encapsulated in this quote are mirrored throughout Shakespeare’s oeuvre, particularly in the exploration of appearance versus reality. Hamlet’s interactions with Ophelia reflect his broader struggle with authenticity in a world filled with deceit. This theme resonates with the audience as it raises timeless questions about trust, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships.

In modern contexts, this quote has been interpreted in various ways, often serving as a feminist critique of how women are perceived and treated in society. The notion of a woman being a “breeder of sinners” can be seen as a reflection of the ongoing discussions about women’s autonomy and societal roles. In a contemporary light, Hamlet’s admonition resonates with the continued struggle for gender equality and the need to challenge the historical narratives that have sought to diminish women’s agency.

Moreover, the philosophical implications of Hamlet’s words touch upon existential themes that remain relevant today. His introspection about the nature of sin and morality speaks to the human condition and the moral dilemmas that individuals face. The idea of being “indifferent honest” suggests a resignation to one’s faults, a notion that many can relate to in their own lives. Hamlet’s plea to Ophelia can thus be seen as a broader commentary on the inherent flaws in human nature and the societal pressures that shape individual choices.

In conclusion, the quote “Get thee to a nunnery. Why wouldst thou be a breeder of sinners?” serves as a powerful reflection on the complexities of love, morality, and identity within *Hamlet*. Through its rich literary devices, historical context, and thematic depth, this line invites readers to explore not only the character of Hamlet but also the societal constructs surrounding gender and virtue. As we dissect these words, we uncover layers of meaning that resonate through the ages, reminding us of the timelessness of Shakespeare’s insights into human nature and the intricacies of our relationships.