Hamlet's Eulogy to Yorick: Reflections on Mortality and the Transience of Life

In William Shakespeare's renowned play Hamlet, the protagonist Hamlet holds the skull of Yorick, the King's jester, during a poignant graveyard scene in Act 5, Scene 1. This moment serves as a powerful reminder of mortality and the inevitability of death, as Hamlet reflects on the transient nature of human existence. The scene is a masterful illustration of Hamlet's contemplation on life, death, and the consequences of aging.

Recalling Yorick and the Playful Spirit of Childhood

Hamlet begins by addressing Yorick, a court jester and a childhood playmate. He reminisces about the carefree and humorous times they shared. Yorick was a person full of 'infinite jest' and 'most excellent fancy,' a playmate who often carried Hamlet on his back, a symbol of their youthful camaraderie. As Hamlet reflects, his tears mix with the fond but poignant memories of their past. He notes the stark contrast between the youthful vitality of his childhood and the current reality, where all that remains of Yorick is his decomposing skull.

Alas poor Yorick! I knew him, Horatio, a fellow of infinite jest; of most excellent fancy. He hath borne me on his back a thousand times, and now, how abhorred in my imagination it is! my gorge rims at it. Here hung those lips that I have kissed I know not how oft.

Horror and Reflection

Hamlet's reflection deepens as he comments on the current state of the skull. He is repulsed by the decay, a forceful reminder of his own mortality. The once lively and endearing features are now mere bones, devoid of any youthful charm or appeal. Hamlet's internal struggle is palpable; he is not only mourning Yorick but also contemplating the grim truth of death and its impact on human identities.

Where be your gibes now, your gambols, your songs, your flashes of merriment that were wont to set the table on a roar? Not one now to mock your own grinning. Quite chapfallen. Now get you to my lady's chamber, and tell her, let her paint an inch thick, to this favour she must come. Make her laugh at that.

The Final Reflections

As the scene reaches its poignant conclusion, Hamlet's thoughts shift towards broader existential questions. He contemplates the inescapable and universal nature of decay and sets the tone for his final monologue. The inescapable truth of death casts a shadow over everything, highlighting the fragility of human existence. This reflection is presented in the context of the historical practice of reusing graves, which was common during the Elizabethan period.

To what base uses we may return, Horatio!

The gravity of this scene reflects deeply on the human psyche and the universal experience of mortality, urging contemplation and introspection on life's purpose and the fleeting nature of youthful joy.