In Shakespeare's "Hamlet," the idea that the world is filled with both active participants and passive observers is captured in the quote, "For some must watch, while some must sleep." This suggests a division in human experience, where certain individuals are tasked with the responsibility of vigilance, while others remain oblivious to the unfolding events around them. It highlights the constant tension between action and inaction within society.
This quote reflects the broader themes of duty and the nature of existence present in the play. Those who watch are often burdened with the weight of awareness and responsibility, while those who sleep may be ignorant of significant truths and events. Shakespeare uses this dichotomy to explore the complexities of human life and the choices individuals face in confronting or avoiding their realities.