How Does Hamlet Want To Kill Claudius

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In the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, the main protagonist Hamlet, is presented with the opportunity to avenge his father and kill his uncle Claudius, but in the moment decides against it and further delays the eventual murder of King Claudius. One reason for this decision is Claudius was in the process of praying and repenting for his sins. Another reason is Hamlets mental weakness and reluctance to kill his step-father. Lastly, he wished to retain his sanity and carry out the murder in an ethical manner providing proper justice for his father. The moment at which Hamlet was confronted with this opportunity, Claudius is in the act of praying and repenting for the sins he committed against his brother, the Old King Hamlet. This turns Hamlets decision into a religious, as well as a practical matter. While he watches Claudius pray, Hamlet pulls out his sword ready to kill him, but begins to question the act saying:
He took my father grossly, full of bread, With all his crimes broad blown, as flush as may; And how his audit stands, who knows save heaven? (3.3.82-86)
Hamlet believes killing Claudius in cold blood while he is praying would not avenge his father in the way he wants. Claudius murdered his father in his sleep, before he had the opportunity to ask
O’Neal 2 forgiveness for his sins. As a result, Hamlet concludes Claudius should not be allowed the luxury of heaven; as he has just confessed to his sins, and deserves to be sent to hell. Hamlet debates the more plausible time to murder Claudius when saying: When he is drunk asleep; or in his rage Or in the incestuous pleasure of his bed; At game, a-swearing, or about some act That has no relish of salvation in’t Then trip him, that his heels may kick at

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