William Shakespeare’s Hamlet intricately weaves in a dualistic the theme of cowardice and bravery in the spiralling plot revolving around the palpable effects of King Hamlet’s death. The young prince, distraught by the recent death of his beloved father as well as his mother’s hasty marriage to his uncle, oscillates between decisions “to be or not to be.”*to act or not to act- Throughout the majority of the play, Prince Hamlet fails to take action, hence remaining in a state of neither being or not being. Hamlet’s emotional state, in turmoil due to grief and rage, further deteriorates after the unanticipated appearance of the Ghost of King Hamlet in the first Act. After hearing the Ghost’s story in which the present king, Claudius, is King …show more content…
Yet once again, Hamlet demonstrates the will to act, but does not realize his goals in a courageous manner. Yes, Hamlet does kill Claudius in the conclusion of the play, but his final epiphany “let be” is merely a simple acceptance of anxiety, rather than a final, courageous action (V. 2. 196).
Accepts the duel, falling into Claudius’ and Laertes’ trap.
Ultimately, Hamlet’s inaction is greatly caused by his thoughtfulness, which overshadows impulsive behavior and action. While this factor may be useful in restricting one’s rash actions, overthinking restricts any further development. Consequently, Hamlet is only able to take initiative in the final scene of the tragedy; however, also dying himself.
Inaction is Hamlet’s “identifying feature” -talks about his plans, but does not fulfill them. 7
The final scene demonstrates the extent and influence of revenge, the prince must die in order to achieve vengeance.
“he has my dying voice” (VI. 2. 335)
Despite the fact that Hamlet accomplishes his revenge in the final act, his initial procrastination, melancholy, gravity / down to earthness followed by hoaxed madness as well as his impulsiveness lead to a perplexed state of mind, which renders him incapable of a well-structured