Meaning of this context

Status
Not open for further replies.

maral55

Member
Joined
Apr 30, 2009
Member Type
Student or Learner
Native Language
Italian
Home Country
Italy
Current Location
Italy
Hello

Could someone please explain the meaning of this sentences to me?

To be, or not to be- that is the question.
Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, or to take arms against a sea of troubles......

and what does nobler means here?
 

emsr2d2

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Jul 28, 2009
Member Type
English Teacher
Native Language
British English
Home Country
UK
Current Location
UK
Hello

Could someone please explain the meaning of this sentences to me?

To be, or not to be- that is the question.
Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, or to take arms against a sea of troubles......

and what does nobler means here?

Ah, translating/explaining Shakespeare! Always fun!

The general meaning of the passage is simply that Hamlet is considering whether or not it is better to simply allow life to deal the problems that come with bad luck, or to fight against it.

Nobler here means "showing more signs of honour or courage".
 

maral55

Member
Joined
Apr 30, 2009
Member Type
Student or Learner
Native Language
Italian
Home Country
Italy
Current Location
Italy
Thank you.

This is quite difficult. Is there a way that I can understand these kind of texts?
 

emsr2d2

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Jul 28, 2009
Member Type
English Teacher
Native Language
British English
Home Country
UK
Current Location
UK
Thank you.

This is quite difficult. Is there a way that I can understand these kind of texts?

Take my word for it - many English speakers struggle to understand Shakespeare. It's written in very old English and is also quite poetic. Generally, plays are much easier to understand when they're actually performed as you have scenery, costume, props etc to help you!
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Top