Exploring the Tragic Hero in Hamlet: A Complex Character Study

When it comes to the character of Hamlet, Shakespeare presents a tragic hero whose actions and inactions have sparked debates among scholars and audiences alike. This essay aims to dissect Hamlet's character, examining whether he truly fits the criteria of a classic tragic hero and analyzing the factors that contribute to his complex persona.

Introduction to the Tragic Hero

Classical Greek philosopher Aristotle defined the tragic hero with specific criteria in the Poetics. A tragic hero must be a person of noble stature or great ambition, have a tragic flaw (hamartia), and ultimately evoke pity and fear in the audience through their downfall. Central to the study of Shakespeare's works, the concept of the tragic hero is exemplified by Hamlet, the prince of Denmark.

Hamlet as a Classic Tragic Hero

Despite the characterization of Hamlet as a weak and indecisive individual, he can still be argued to fit the criteria set forth by Aristotle and other scholars. Hamlet's noble stature is clear from the outset; he is the legitimate heir to the Danish throne and a prince of high moral and intellectual standing. However, his tragic flaw is his indecisiveness and propensity for overthinking, which drives much of the play's plot and its eventual tragic end.

Hamlet's Indecisiveness and Its Consequences

Hamlet's indecisiveness and the fear of action is often attributed to his deep contemplations about the nature of existence and the consequences of his actions. This is evident in his famous soliloquy: "To be or not to be, that is the question." Yet, his vacillation does not entirely detract from his heroism; instead, it adds depth to his character, portraying him as a person torn between his duty and his desire for revenge.

Hamlet's Impact on the Play's Outcome

Hamlet's decisions significantly influence the outcome of the play. His inaction allows the storyline to progress, and his actions, whether deliberate or not, often lead to tragic consequences. For example, his murder of Polonius, believing it to be his uncle, not only results in the death of an innocent man but also incites Ophelia's suicide. These events underscore the complex nature of Hamlet's character and the tragic hero's impact on the narrative.

Scotland's Holinshed and the Play’s Originality

Shakespeare's adaptation of Holinshed's Chronicles provides a framework for the narrative, but it is his artistic license that turns Hamlet into a tragic hero. Holinshed's version of the story lacks the emotional depth and complexity that Shakespeare infuses into the character. According to Holinshed, the abandonment of the supposed murderer leaves no room for a tragic hero. However, Shakespeare's Hamlet becomes a character who, despite his flaws, embodies the qualities of a tragic hero, making the play a masterpiece of literature.

Hamlet's Tragic Integrity

Despite the criticisms of Hamlet as a weak and vacillating hero, his actions and internal struggles ultimately contribute to the tragic integrity of the play. His quest for vengeance is noble, and his willingness to endure suffering and peril to avenge his father's death demonstrates his heroic qualities. Even when his decisions lead to tragedy, his moral complexity and emotional depth make him a relatable and tragic figure.

Conclusion

Hamlet's character is multifaceted, embodying both the flaws and strengths of a tragic hero. While he may be indecisive and sometimes flawed, his nobility, integrity, and the impact of his choices on the play's outcome solidify his status as a tragic hero. Shakespeare's genius lies in his ability to create a character that is both human and transcendent, making Hamlet a timeless and thought-provoking work.