Primary Characters in Hamlet
Hamlet, Prince of Denmark
The protagonist and tragic hero of the play, Hamlet is a complex character driven by grief, moral duty, and philosophical contemplation.
NoteHamlet's character represents the Renaissance ideal of the thinking man, constantly wrestling with questions of morality, existence, and action.
Key Character Traits:
- Intellectual and philosophical nature
- Melancholic disposition
- Sharp wit and clever wordplay
- Prone to introspection and self-doubt
"To be, or not to be, that is the question"
This famous soliloquy exemplifies Hamlet's tendency to analyze situations deeply, sometimes to the point of paralysis.
Common MistakeStudents often mistake Hamlet's hesitation for cowardice, when it's actually a complex manifestation of his philosophical nature and moral uncertainty.
Claudius
The antagonist and current King of Denmark, Claudius is Hamlet's uncle and now stepfather, having married Gertrude after killing King Hamlet.
Key Character Traits:
- Manipulative and calculating
- Politically astute
- Capable of genuine remorse
- Ruthlessly ambitious
"My offense is rank, it smells to heaven"Tip
Pay attention to Claudius's soliloquy in Act 3, Scene 3, as it reveals his inner conflict and adds depth to what could otherwise be a one-dimensional villain.
Gertrude
Hamlet's mother and the Queen of Denmark, Gertrude's hasty marriage to Claudius sets much of the play's action in motion.
Key Character Traits:
- Sensual and passionate
- Politically naive
- Deeply loving toward Hamlet
- Caught between son and husband
"The lady doth protest too much, methinks"
