To Be Or Not To Be

Worksheet Description

This worksheet focuses on identifying antithesis in one of Shakespeare’s most famous soliloquies from “Hamlet.” Antithesis is presented here as a literary device that expresses contrasting ideas in a parallel structure, thereby not only emphasizing differences but also adding rhythm and balance to the writing. The soliloquy posed by Hamlet encapsulates this concept as it delves into the profound internal debate on life and existence. Students are tasked with underlining examples of antithesis in the provided passage, which helps them engage directly with Shakespeare’s language and understand how antithesis shapes the texture and meaning of a text.

The exercise is interactive and serves as a tool for developing critical reading and analytical skills. As students mark the contrasting pairs, such as “To be, or not to be” and “To die—to sleep, / No more,” they actively participate in unraveling the complexity of Hamlet’s thoughts about life, death, and the unknown hereafter. This hands-on approach reinforces their comprehension of antithesis, acquainting them with the impact it can have in crafting persuasive and memorable arguments. Through such analysis, the timeless relevance of Shakespeare’s writing becomes evident, offering students insights into the power of well-crafted rhetorical devices.