Elizabethan Drama ; Hamlet : Act I scene IV

Abstract

In the middle of this scene, Hamlet left the main event and action, and he started to contemplate about the nature of goodness. In literature, this device is called (DIGRESSION). While reading a play, a reader comes across several sudden interruptions in the main action of the play, which: 1. provides him background information, 2. establish his interest, 3. describes a character’s motivation, and 4. builds suspense. These interruptions are called “digressions.” A digression is a stylistic device playwrights employ to create a temporary departure from the main subject of the scene, to focus on apparently unrelated topics, explaining background details. However, after this temporary shift, dramatists return to the main topic at the end of the event.