Who said to be or not to be that is the question and why?
Hamlet is a notable literary work by William Shakespeare. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Hamlet.
Answer
Who said, “To be or not to be that is the question,” and why? [2017] ✪✪✪
The famous line “To be or not to be, that is the question” is spoken by Prince Hamlet in William Shakespeare’s (1564-1616) “Hamlet.” This famous soliloquy appears in Act 3, Scene 1. This speech shows Hamlet’s deep sadness and confusion. He is unable to decide whether to kill his uncle, King Claudius, and take revenge or not. He is in deep mental pain, and he contemplates suicide.
Hamlet’s Inner Struggle: Hamlet says these words when he is alone, thinking about all the pain, lies, and injustice in the world. He has not yet taken revenge on Claudius, and his mind is full of doubt and fear. He wonders if it is better “to be,” meaning to live and suffer, or “not to be,” meaning to die and end all suffering. But he is afraid of what comes after death—whether there is peace or more pain in the unknown world. This fear of the unknown makes him hesitate to die. So, Hamlet stays alive, even though he is unhappy.
Hamlet’s words also show his thinking nature. He is not a man of quick action. He is full of doubts and indecision. However, this indecision makes Hamlet a human character.
Deeper Significance: This speech is not just about Hamlet’s personal sadness; it also speaks about the human condition. Every person faces pain and suffering in life, but continues to live because of the fear of what lies after death.
In short, the line shows Hamlet’s inner conflict between life and death. It reveals his deep thinking, fear, weakness, and his inability to take revenge quickly.
