Jaideep Gill
Mrs. B. John
June 22, 2023
Applying Marxist Literary Theory To Hamlet
Applying Marxist theory to "Hamlet" reveals a complex interaction of power dynamics,
class conflict, and contradictions within the ruling class. A Marxist interpretation illuminates the
oppressive nature of feudal society. It hints at the potential for revolutionary change by
examining the bourgeoisie (nobility), petit-bourgeoisie (courtiers), the proletariat (peasants), and
lumpenproletariat (gravediggers), as well as the themes of justice, ruler-ship, and government.
The themes of class struggle, revolution, and superstructure serve as a lens through which
Alexander Smirnoff's Marxist interpretation of Shakespeare analyses "Hamlet." The plot
concentrates mainly upon the nobles, as symbolized by King Claudius and the court, who wield
power and wealth while exploiting the poorer classes. Act 5 focuses on the ruling class's
inconsistencies and the tactics they use to retain their rule. In "Hamlet", King Claudius represents
the bourgeoisie or feudal society's ruling class. He stole the throne through regicide,
exemplifying the nobility's repressive nature. Claudius' actions and decisions are motivated by a
desire to retain power and wealth. This is seen in his decision to exile Hamlet to England to
eliminate a potential challenge to his reign. The bourgeoisie's contempt for justice and morality
is evident when they use situations to their advantage. Polonius and Rosencrantz represent the
petit-bourgeoisie, who act as intermediaries between the ruling class and the lower strata. They
are willing participants in the existing quo, partnering with the bourgeoisie to secure their own
positions and privileges. Polonius' eagerness to spy on Hamlet and his daughter Ophelia's
relationship reveals the opportunistic nature of the petit-bourgeoisie and their cooperation in the
ruling class's authority. In "Hamlet," the peasantry is portrayed as the proletariat through the
characters of the gravediggers. They work for the elite, actually digging tombs for the ruling
class. The gravediggers engage in debates that call into question the legitimacy of social
structures as well as economic and power inequities. Their presence gives the downtrodden a
voice and suggests the possibility of revolutionary transformation.
The subject of justice in "Hamlet" corresponds to Marxist ideas as well. The drama
highlights the underlying inequity among the ruling class, in which the privileged exploit the
vulnerable with no repercussions. The capacity of King Claudius to manipulate and dodge
punishment for his crimes reveals the court system's class bias. This gap highlights the
importance of a revolutionary fight to achieve true justice, in which the ruling class's power is
challenged and oppressed classes rise up against their oppressors. In conclusion, a Marxist
analysis of "Hamlet" illustrates the underlying power dynamics, class conflict, and tensions in
feudal society. The drama exposes the oppressive nature of the ruling class and demonstrates the
possibilities for revolutionary change via the lenses of the bourgeoisie, petit-bourgeoisie,
proletariat, and lumpenproletariat. "Hamlet" criticizes the ruling elite, emphasizes the need for
justice, and calls the established order into question. We obtain a better grasp of Shakespeare's
masterpiece's political notions about power, justice, rulership, and government by utilizing
Marxist theory.