Question

Read the excerpt from Act III of Hamlet.

And melt in her own fire: proclaim no shame
When the compulsive ardour gives the charge,
Since frost itself as actively doth burn,
And reason panders will.

How does the repeated idea in this excerpt reflect an important theme in this play?

The repeated use of emotional words supports the theme “Hamlet is unkind to his family.”
The repeated use of emotional words supports the theme “Rulers should show more compassion.”
The repeated use of “hot” and “cold” words supports the theme “Family relationships are complicated.”
The repeated use of “hot” and “cold” words supports the theme “Passion is a powerful force.”

Answer 1

The repeated use of “hot” and “cold” words supports the theme “Passion is a powerful force.”

Explanation: the lines contrast ardour/fire and frost, showing that strong emotions can drive behavior and even make reason yield (“reason panders will”), so passion’s power is emphasized.