Examples Of Moral Ambiguity In Hamlet

Jadon Tang

Mr. Boell

Honors English

February 17, 2023

Moral Ambiguity in Hamlet

Tragedy is a vital part of many works of literature, and the many aspects of tragedy allow a protagonist to grow and succeed. However, in Hamlet’s case, tragedy acts only as a reason for ambiguity and violence. In William Shakespeare’s play, The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, Hamlet’s inability to act rationally leads to his own moral ambiguity thus highlighting tragedy in the play. Throughout the novel, Hamlet is represented as the embodiment of tragedy. Although various characters attempt to understand Hamlet’s various motives it is apparent that Hamlet’s tragic flaw is his inability to act rationally. With this in mind

Hamlet’s actions towards Ophelia

Hamlet’s indecisiveness in deciding between his father’s revenge and his own morality results in a series of internal conflicts which are explored throughout the play. One critic suggests that “The apparition of the ghost precipitates the confusion and anguish in Hamlet’s mind, which he conceals on a superficial level by the appearance of his madness” (Ziolkowski 134). Although many of Hamlet’s motives for revenge stem from the apparition of the ghost, his true irrationality stems from his inability to come to terms with the outside world. It seems as if Hamlet uses these tragic events as excuses for his psychotic actions, however Hamlet is never given a proper outlet to release his anger. As a result of this deficiency, Hamlet seems to feel a sense of helplessness, which is showcased when Hamlet states, “Ah, I wish my dirty flesh could melt away into a vapor, or that God had not made a law against suicide” (1.2. 130-134). Hamlet often shows these feelings of hopelessness, however his ambiguous actions often hurt those around him. Although Hamlet understands that he is mad and admits, “I essentially am not in madness, but mad in craft” (3.4.191), the way that he attempts to fix the problems that are bequeathed to him end with pain and