Tis now the very witching time of night, When churchyards yawn and hell itself breathes out Contagion to this world; now could I drink hot blood, And do such bitter business as the dayWould quake to look on.
In this quote from Shakespeare's "Hamlet," the speaker reflects on a dark and intense moment, indicating a time steeped in supernatural unrest. The phrase "the very witching time of night" suggests a period when the boundaries between the natural and supernatural blur, allowing chaos and malevolence to emerge. The mention of churchyards yawning implies a confrontation with death, highlighting the eerie atmosphere that surrounds the speaker.
The speaker expresses a deep desire for vengeance and a willingness to engage in horrific acts, illustrating a profound inner turmoil. The imagery of drinking "hot blood" and engaging in actions that would cause fear emphasizes the character's struggles with morality and the weight of revenge. This passage captures the essence of Hamlet's conflict, drawing readers into a moment where darkness prevails and the stakes of human action are greatly heightened.
