To What Extent Is Hamlet A Tragic Hero

A tragic hero is defined as a substantial or aristocratic figure who, because of a fatal flaw, (Hamartia) makes an error that causes a twist in fate; or worse, downfall. (Peripeteia) These two aspects play a major role throughout Shakespeare's Hamlet, but are not the only characteristics you have to possess in order to be considered a tragic hero. Hamlet has to go through many challenging obstacles throughout the play, and he unfortunately never got to see the light at the end of the tunnel; but not every tragic hero has to die to be considered one.

Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark, is a good representation of a tragic hero. He is a very lonely individual who lost his father but cannot seem to get away from his father’s spirit; until he revenges his death. Hamlet’s uncle, Claudius, murdered his brother, King Hamlet because he envied his authority, he wanted the throne, as well as his wife. Just a month after king Hamlet was murdered Claudius had married his widowed wife, and Hamlet did not approve. This is where Hamlet started losing it. Hamlet experienced a number of downfalls, not only

Hamlet was very brave, and was driven to get payback for his father. The ghost of his father drove Hamlet insane, and feeling like he could not take a free breathe without feeling guilty for every free breathe Claudius was taking. Hamlet is without a doubt very noble, and has been since birth. He went from being at a good place in his life to rock bottom, not knowing what to do or where to turn; he trusted no one. Hamlet had more than a handful of times where he could have murdered his uncle; however, he always wimped out and never took action. As a result, his flaw had led to his own death and unintentionally the death of his mother. Say Hamlet did not possess this flaw, the death of many innocent characters could have been avoided, possibly including his