Hamlet’s procrastination in taking revenge in Hamlet

Answer

Write about Hamlet’s procrastination in taking revenge in Hamlet.

Hamlet‘s procrastination (the action of delaying or postponing something) in seeking revenge is a central theme in William Shakespeare’s (1564-1616) play Hamlet, which was written between 1599 and 1601. In the play, Hamlet seeks revenge on his father’s murderer, a duty given by the Ghost of his later father.

Here are some key factors contributing to Hamlet’s procrastination:

Uncertainty and Doubt: The Ghost tells Hamlet that his uncle Claudius murdered King Hamlet by poisoning him while he was asleep. In Act 1, Scene 5, the Ghost says,

“The serpent that did sting thy father’s life

Now wears his crown.”

Hamlet is initially unsure about the ghost’s revelation regarding his father’s murder. He grapples with doubts about the ghost’s authenticity and the reliability of its information. As a reflective and philosophical character, Hamlet is cautious about acting impulsively based on uncertain evidence.

Moral Consideration: Hamlet is deeply troubled by the moral implications of revenge. He is torn between his duty to avenge his father’s murder and his ethical qualms about committing murder himself.

Overthinking: Hamlet is a highly intellectual character who tends to overthink and analyze situations. Hamlet even contemplates suicide to end his troubles. He says in his most famous soliloquy,

“To be or nor to be, that is the question”

Hamlet’s fatal flaw is his inability to act decisively to avenge his father’s death. He would rather analyze and theorize than act boldly.

Fear of Consequences: Hamlet is acutely aware of the potential consequences of seeking revenge. He fears acting against the current king, Claudius, may lead to his downfall or ignite a series of tragic events.

In Conclusion, Hamlet’s procrastination results from psychological, moral, ethical, intellectual, and emotional factors. Hamlet’s procrastination makes him the most human character Shakespeare ever created.