ACT 2, SCENE II
HAMLET
Shame and confusion! All is on the rout:
Fear frames disorder, and disorder wounds
Where it should guard. O war! Thou son of hell!
Angry heavens throw hot coals of vengeance!
He that is truly dedicate to war
Hath no self-love; nor he that loves himself
Hath not essentially, but by circumstance
The name of valor. Cut me to pieces,
Men and lads, stain all your edges on me;
I have done a deed whereat valor will weep.
Was I ordained, dear God, to lose my youth?
There is no sure foundation set on blood,
No certain life achieved by others’ death!
Within me is a hell: I do repent.
O, heavenly powers—
(regains composure)
It is too late;
I love in flames. Such idle talk foretells:
Bloody I am, bloody will be my end.