Hamlet 4

In Act II, Scene ii, Polonius speaks of the “pregnant” nature of Hamlet’s remarks (227).  By “pregnant,” Polonius means to say that Hamlet’s responses are loaded with meaning, particularly meaning that is poised to come into the world at any time.  Hamlet tells Polonius to be wary of his daughter conceiving a child (201-203).  While the line is humorous because of the irony, it may also be an indicator of Hamlet’s low self-esteem.  His wish to prevent conception may stem from his suicidal thoughts and his current perception of life as futile.   Hamlet’s suggestion to walk “Into [his] grave” has a similar meaning, all though in this line it is more overt (225).  As Polonius sarcastically acknowledges, his grave would technically be "out of the air" as Polonius has suggested (224).  However, Hamlet takes Polonius's well-intended suggestion to clear his head to another level by suggesting that he clear his head by simply ending his life.