Both Uses of
impotent
in
Hamlet, Prince of Denmark
- So much for him,— Now for ourself and for this time of meeting: Thus much the business is:—we have here writ To Norway, uncle of young Fortinbras,— Who, impotent and bed-rid, scarcely hears Of this his nephew's purpose,—to suppress His further gait herein; in that the levies, The lists, and full proportions are all made Out of his subject:—and we here dispatch You, good Cornelius, and you, Voltimand, For bearers of this greeting to old Norway; Giving to you no further personal power To…†
Scene 1.2
- Upon our first, he sent out to suppress His nephew's levies; which to him appear'd To be a preparation 'gainst the Polack; But, better look'd into, he truly found It was against your highness; whereat griev'd,— That so his sickness, age, and impotence Was falsely borne in hand,—sends out arrests On Fortinbras; which he, in brief, obeys; Receives rebuke from Norway; and, in fine, Makes vow before his uncle never more To give th' assay of arms against your majesty.†
Scene 2.2 *
Definition:
-
(impotent as in: impotent fury) lacking power or ability