Senior English Frankenstein Blog 2/8/11

Victor Frankenstein discovers the secret of life and uses this knowledge to create a sentient being. Imagine that you have discovered some previously thought-to-be-impossible technique or ability. What would you create? Describe your creation and tell why you came up with this idea. Respond to two other people’s creations. Early responders, please come back to respond to your classmates’ creations. No inappropriate responses, please.

Hamlet:
Not a whit, we defy augury. There is special providence in
the fall of a sparrow. If it be now, 'tis not to come; if it be not to
come, it will be now; if it be not now, yet it will come—the
readiness is all. Since no man, of aught he leaves, knows what is't
to leave betimes, let be. (Hamlet V.ii.191-194)

Hamlet has received Laertes' challenge by way of the King's toady, Osric. Horatio remarks that Laertes is known for his prowess with the sword and offers to make an excuse so that Hamlet can get out of the match. Both Hamlet and Horatio probably suspect that some foul play is afoot. But Hamlet refuses to put off the match. The above quote (on page 892 of our text) is his reply to Horatio.

What do you think Hamlet means? Note that the line about the sparrow is a reference to Matthew Chapter 10.