Hamlet : Characters
Hamlet is a notable literary work by William Shakespeare. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Hamlet.
Characters
Major Characters
Hamlet: The Prince of Denmark, deeply affected by his father’s death and his mother’s quick remarriage to Claudius. He is thoughtful and melancholic. He is driven by a desire to avenge his father’s murder.
The Ghost: The spirit of King Hamlet, who appears to tell Hamlet that he was murdered by Claudius. The ghost urges Hamlet to take revenge.
King Claudius: Hamlet’s uncle, who becomes King of Denmark after killing his brother, King Hamlet. He is cunning and ambitious and tries to secure his power while hiding his guilt.
Queen Gertrude: Hamlet’s mother and the widow of King Hamlet. She quickly marries Claudius after her husband’s death. She loves Hamlet but seems unaware of Claudius’s crimes.
Polonius: A councilor, or advisor, to Claudius and the father of Ophelia and Laertes.
Ophelia: Polonius’s daughter, who is in love with Hamlet. Her relationship with Hamlet and her father’s death led to her mental breakdown and eventual tragic death.
Laertes: Son of Polonius and brother of Ophelia. He is hot-headed and seeks revenge against Hamlet for the death of his father.
Horatio: Hamlet’s loyal friend. He remains by Hamlet’s side throughout the play. He survives to tell Hamlet’s story after his death.
Minor Characters
Rosencrantz: A Former friend of Hamlet, summoned by Claudius to spy on Hamlet.
Guildenstern: A Former friend of Hamlet, summoned by Claudius to spy on Hamlet.
Fortinbras: Prince of Norway, who seeks to reclaim land his father lost to King Hamlet. He represents action in contrast to Hamlet’s indecision.
Osric: A courtier who invites Hamlet to the duel with Laertes.
Marcellus and Barnardo: The sentinels who first see the ghost of King Hamlet. They summon Horatio and Hamlet to witness the ghost.