Essay about Eminem and Hamlet

Submitted By jacoba1011
Words: 314
Pages: 2

Jacob R. D. Archer
Ms. Cooper
ENG 4U
December 3 2014
Eminem, a Modern Day Hamlet In today’s society equality and human rights are very important, whether the rights are for the LBGT community, religious minorities, or for the rights of women. Although many people are working hard to help advance these rights, there are also many people who help to fight against this progress. Male chauvinism is very prevalent in today’s society, especially in the hip hop/rap community. One of the main culprits known for his misogynist lyrics and point of view is Eminem. Eminem is often criticised for his sexist lyrics and has recently been in trouble for his lyrics which state
“Play nice? [Expletive] I’ll punch Lana Del Rey right in the face twice, like Ray Rice in broad daylight in the plain sight of the elevator surveillance … ’Til her head is banging on the railing, then celebrate with the Ravens” (Guardian).
This lyric not only speaks about physically assaulting female artist Lana Del Rey but also refers to a recent case of domestic violence committed by football player Ray Rice. This shows that, like Hamlet, Eminem is a misogynist. Hamlet too sees women as being lesser than men and is well known for his quote “Frailty, thy name is woman” (1.2.146). There have always been misogynist men in society, and if we want to move forward toward a society of equality, then we must end this source of male chauvinism.

Works Cited
Books:
Shakespeare, William. Hamlet. Toronto: Harcourt Brace and