How Is Hamlet A Dynamic Character

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"To be or not to be: that is the question" (III.i.56) Almost any avid English reader will recognize this renown quote from one of Hamlet's many soliloquies. In William Shakespeare's great tragedy Hamlet, the author explores the complexity of Prince Hamlet while contrasting it to the unchanging personality of King Claudius. Analysis reveals several clear contrasts between some of Claudius and Hamlet's more prominent characteristics. While Hamlet, the enigmatic protagonist, immediately captures the reader's attention with his bold actions and pensive soliloquies, Claudius, the conniving antagonist, irks readers with his manipulative scheming. Since vile King Claudius appears as a static character, Shakespeare uses dramatic soliloquies delivered by Hamlet to express the complexity of both the protagonist and ordinary people in general. However, Hamlet's indecision and inability to resolve his own inner struggles ultimately leads to his untimely demise, which serves a warning for the audience. Essentially, this essay will analyze both Hamlet and Claudius and then contrast the two characters.
Throughout the play Hamlet, Shakespeare reflects the general condition of mankind in the way he uses the protagonist. …show more content…

After the Ghost orders Hamlet to avenge his death, Hamlet despairs and delivers his second soliloquy in anguish since the Ghost's message gruesomely torments his very soul. He cries out to the universe and begs, "Hold, hold, my heart,/ And you, my sinews, grow not instant old,/ But bear me stiffly up(I.v.93-95)." During this soliloquy Hamlet fears that the shock of conversing with the Ghost will cause him to fall over dead. Dramatically bemoaning the burden of revenge that his father has charged him with, Hamlet complains to the universe. While certainly not demonstrating the bravest reaction possible, Hamlet definitely displays his flair for the

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