Hamlet as a Tragic Figure of Revenge in William Shakespeare's Play

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Hamlet as a Tragic Figure of Revenge in William Shakespeare's Play

'Hamlet' is a revenge tragedy. Within the play there are many aspects,

which are particularly common within this genre. For example, in all

revenge tragedies, there are scenes of madness, in some cases this is

genuine, however, as in 'Hamlet', it is often an act. Another criteria

of revenge tragedies that have been written into 'Hamlet' is a play

within a play. The reason for Hamlet wishing to seek revenge is

defined right at the start of the play. Hamlet learns of an act, which

requires vengeance from a ghost who visits him.

The genre of the play emphasises the character of Hamlet. There are

many events within the play that cause us to question whether Hamlet

is a 'tragic figure of revenge'. Although we are aware that he is

seeking revenge, Hamlet seems to play with the idea, doubting his

ability to commit murder. Hamlet hesitates considerably, avoiding the

murder of Claudius for as long as possible. This raises moral issues

within the play, the rhetorical techniques used in the play cause a

will he or won't he? scenario. Hamlet wishes to stay loyal to the

ghost, who is claiming to be the king, however, he is far from being

the stereotypical, hard-faced, violent character, capable of carrying

out a revengeful act without feeling any remorse. Instead, he is a

pure and honest man, who does not seem to posses the characteristics

of a hero. Hamlets hesitation makes his character seem tragically torn

between emotions. He wants to do what is right, but fails for a long

time, to make his decision. This causes tension in the play, and, the

time delay provides the reader with enough time to build an accurate

image of Hamlets character, examining him in fine detail to determine

his true mental state. Hamlet is most definitely a figure of revenge

and to many would seem tragic, in order to establish the extent of

this, it is necessary to discuss all the possible causes of his change

in nature.

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