1. Confronting Mortality: The scene places the audience face to face with the reality of death through the gravediggers' casual discussions about the decomposition of bodies and their excavation of Yoricks skull. Hamlet, in his contemplation of the skull, is confronted with the transience of human existence and the leveling effect of death, which renders all social distinctions meaningless.
2. Memento Mori: The skull of Yorick, once a court jester, serves as a stark reminder of the ephemeral nature of life and the eventual fate that awaits all individuals, regardless of their social status or accomplishments. Hamlet reflects on the contrast between Yoricks lively presence in life and the decay of his remains, leading him to contemplate the futility of human pursuits.
3. Mortality and Madness: The gravediggers' dialogue about Yoricks profession further emphasizes the theme of death. Their discussion about the role of a jester as someone who mocks the follies of the living highlights the absurdity of human endeavors in the face of death. Hamlet's descent into madness is intertwined with his contemplation of mortality and the existential questions it raises.
4. Contrast Between Life and Death: The scene accentuates the contrast between life and death by juxtaposing Hamlets philosophical musing on the skull with the gravediggers' earthy humor and pragmatic view of death. This contrast showcases the various ways individuals cope with the contemplation of mortality, from philosophical inquiry to practical acceptance.
5. Theme of Revenge: Hamlet's soliloquy while holding the skull also foreshadows the play's central theme of revenge. He expresses his contempt for the world's corruption, which he believes demands retribution. The contrast between Yoricks harmless skull and the violent actions that follow reflects the play's exploration of death and the consequences of seeking vengeance.
6. Universality of Death: The scene underscores the universality of death, affecting all regardless of social standing, wealth, or social status. The gravediggers' remarks about the egalitarian nature of death further support this theme, highlighting that all, from kings to peasants, end up in the same fate.
In conclusion, the scene with the gravediggers and Hamlet's discovery of Yoricks skull serves as a powerful illustration of the theme of preoccupation with death in the play. It explores the existential questions surrounding mortality, the futility of human endeavors, and the diverse ways individuals confront their own mortality. The scene contributes to Hamlet's character development and sets the stage for the plays exploration of revenge, madness, and the inevitability of death.