Characterization in Hamlet

In William Shakespeare's tragedy, Hamlet, the titular character is often regarded as one of the most complex and intriguing figures in literature. Throughout the play, Hamlet undergoes a transformation, revealing different facets of his personality that contribute to his overall development as a round character. In what ways is Hamlet a round character? By examining his soliloquies, relationships, and actions, it becomes evident that Hamlet possesses a multifaceted nature that adds depth and realism to his portrayal. This essay will explore the ways in which Hamlet is a round character, highlighting the significance of his complexities in driving the plot and engaging the audience.

The Soliloquies: Insights into Hamlet's Mind

One of the key ways in which Hamlet is portrayed as a round character is through his soliloquies. These monologues provide the audience with a glimpse into Hamlet's inner thoughts and emotions, allowing us to witness the conflict within his mind. For instance, in his famous "To be or not to be" soliloquy, Hamlet contemplates the nature of life and death, grappling with existential questions that reflect his complex and introspective nature. Through his soliloquies, Hamlet reveals his depth of thought and contemplative nature, showcasing his complexity as a character.

Furthermore, Hamlet's soliloquies also highlight his internal struggle and his indecisiveness. In his soliloquy in Act 3, Scene 1, Hamlet reflects on the moral implications of seeking revenge, questioning whether it is nobler to suffer in silence or to take action. This internal conflict reveals the complexity of Hamlet's character, as he navigates between conflicting emotions and moral dilemmas. His soliloquies serve as a window into his psyche, allowing the audience to understand the depth of his internal turmoil and his intricate thought processes.

Relationships: Hamlet's Interactions with Others

In addition to his soliloquies, Hamlet's relationships with other characters also contribute to his roundness as a character. His interactions with his mother, Gertrude, and his love interest, Ophelia, provide further insights into his complex nature.

Hamlet's relationship with Gertrude is fraught with tension and mixed emotions. Despite his anger towards her for marrying his uncle so soon after his father's death, Hamlet also expresses deep affection and concern for her well-being. In Act 3, Scene 4, Hamlet confronts his mother, expressing his disappointment and disgust at her actions. However, he also shows a softer side, begging her to repent and save her soul. This conflicting range of emotions towards Gertrude demonstrates the multidimensionality of Hamlet's character, as he struggles to reconcile his love for his mother with his anger towards her.

Similarly, Hamlet's relationship with Ophelia is marked by complexity. At times, he professes his love for her, but in Act 3, Scene 1, he declares, "I did love you once." This statement suggests a shift in his feelings, possibly due to his disillusionment with women and his distrust of others. Hamlet's fluctuating emotions towards Ophelia reflect his internal conflicts and add depth to his character, making him more relatable and human.

Actions: Hamlet's Choices and Consequences

Hamlet's actions throughout the play further emphasize his roundness as a character. His decision to feign madness, for example, showcases his cunning and intelligence. By pretending to be mad, Hamlet is able to observe the actions and reactions of those around him, gathering information and biding his time. This calculated move reveals Hamlet's complexity, as he strategically plans his actions to achieve his ultimate goal of avenging his father's death.

Furthermore, Hamlet's actions are not always consistent with his words. In Act 2, Scene 2, he tells Rosencrantz and Guildenstern that he is "but mad north-north-west" and claims, "I know not 'seems,'" implying that he is not easily deceived. However, later in the play, Hamlet falls victim to his own hubris and is deceived by Claudius' manipulations. This contradiction between his words and actions adds depth to his character, highlighting his flaws and vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hamlet is undoubtedly a round character, as evidenced by his soliloquies, relationships, and actions. Through his introspective monologues, he reveals his complex thoughts and emotions, providing the audience with insights into his internal conflicts. His relationships with Gertrude and Ophelia further demonstrate his multidimensionality, as he grapples with conflicting emotions and navigates complex interpersonal dynamics. Lastly, Hamlet's actions, such as his feigned madness and his susceptibility to manipulation, reveal his flaws and vulnerabilities. Shakespeare's portrayal of Hamlet as a round character adds depth and realism to the play, engaging the audience and allowing for a more nuanced exploration of the human condition.

By delving into the complexities of Hamlet's character, we gain a greater understanding of the intricacies of human nature and the universal themes explored in the play. Furthermore, the portrayal of Hamlet as a round character encourages us to reflect on our own complexities and contradictions, prompting us to consider the complexity of the human experience. Overall, Hamlet's roundness as a character enhances the play's impact and ensures its enduring relevance in the realm of literature.

Bibliography

Shakespeare, William. Hamlet. Edited by Barbara A. Mowat and Paul Werstine, Simon & Schuster Paperbacks, 2011.