1. Melancholy |
Hamlet’s emotions are not in accord to nature, perhaps. Hamlet’s depression transcends physical acts (Act I, 2: 85). Claudius admonishes Hamlet for his unmanly behavior (Act I, 2: 87+). |
2. Disenchantment |
Hamlet has thoughts of suicide before he sees the ghost (Act I, 2: 129 +). |
3. Revenge |
Hamlet feels obligated to avenge his father’s death (Act I, 5). |
4. Imprisoned, Trapped |
Hamlet feels that Denmark is a prison. He has an Existential outlook (II, 2: 235-58). |
5. Paralyzed |
Hamlet is unable to feel or act (II, 2: 527-82). |
6. Indecisive, Suicidal |
Hamlet ponders death: “to be or not to be” (III, 1: 58 +). |
These are just some of the elements that contribute to the complexity and richness of Hamlet’s character. Hamlet intrigues many people, and confuses others. There are no simple answers to explain why Hamlet is motivated or unable to be motivated in regards to any action or to his course in life. Hamlet feels tossed and torn by the forces of Fate. And Fate (or Fortune, as it is usually called during the Renaissance) usually did not bestow special treatment upon anyone for any prolonged length of time.