Exit — Stage Left

When Shakespeare's characters bid their farewells they never give a simple "good-bye" and fade quietly into the night. They often find dramatic ways to say farewell — usually using several words to make it known that "this conversation is done."

In Hamlet alone, Shakespeare often creates an over-the-top moment when a character simply departs the scene. In Act 1, Scene V, Hamlet can't say just one Adieu — he wants to leave an impression and says, "Adieu, adieu, remember me." In Act II Scene II, Hamlet says, "God bye to you" [with God bye meaning God be with you]. He immediately lets his audience know for dramatic effect, "Now I am alone."

We see an example of a farewell with kind regards attached when Osric says to Hamlet (Act V Scene II),  "I commend my duty to your lordship."Osric's dedication to Hamlet is reinforced in his good-bye.

Shakespeare's exits should never be overlooked - and never dismissed.

.....Now, I must part ways — adieu, until next time my readers.