1. "A prison" vs. "A goodly place": Hamlet initially refers to Denmark as "a prison," suggesting a sense of confinement and oppression. However, he quickly modifies this description by saying that it is "a goodly place," indicating that there are also positive aspects to the country.
2. "A sterile promontory" vs. "An unweeded garden": Hamlet compares Denmark to "a sterile promontory," emphasizing its barrenness and lack of productivity. He then refers to it as "an unweeded garden," implying that it is overgrown and neglected.
3. "A foul and pestilent congregation of vapors": Hamlet's most dramatic description of Denmark is as "a foul and pestilent congregation of vapors," painting a vivid picture of a place plagued by corruption and sickness.
4. "A heaven's face with sore eyes": Hamlet draws a comparison between Denmark and a "heaven's face with sore eyes," suggesting that despite its potential beauty, the country is afflicted with some kind of ailment or blemish.
5. "A kingdom of rotten apples": In one of the most famous lines from the play, Hamlet says that Denmark is "a kingdom of rotten apples," implying that the entire nation is tainted by corruption and decay.
Overall, Hamlet's descriptions of Denmark highlight his complex and conflicted feelings towards his homeland. While he acknowledges its positive aspects, he is also intensely aware of its flaws and shortcomings, which contribute to his disillusionment and despair.