Act 5~ Hamlet

As we begin the final act of Shakespeare's Hamlet, we enter into a conversation between the Gravedigger and another. As the Gravedigger speaks to the other person, we see that his speech is not as sophisticated as his royal counterparts, such as Hamlet and King Claudius. He says, "Argal, she drowned herself wittingly" (5.1.12-13). Although he is making a valid point about the death of Ophelia, his conclusion with "argal" reveals his lack of education. This lack of education is displayed by his mispronunciation of "ergo".The gravedigger, even while lacking education, still finds ways to enjoy himself. With his witty humor, he keeps the interest of both himself and his friend: "What is he that builds stronger than either the mason, the shipwright, or the carpenter?" (5.1.42-43). Although he digs graves as his livelihood, and has done so since he was young, he still remains quite pleasant and happy with what he does.