
Originally Posted by
nice_hair
How important is revenge as a motivating factor in the Shakespearean tragedy you are studying?
The play begins with the ghost of Hamlet's murdered father, whose message to his son cries for vengeance against Claudius, now King of Denmark. How should Hamlet, the faithful son, proceed? This problematic question of revenge is the core of the play.
Here's several points on 'revenge' and Hamlet's motivation:
Can I be sure that the vengeful ghost is credible (and not from hell)?
Should I take bold but rash action to right wrongs (kill Claudius) or live peaceably among men?
Should I live at all in this harsh world (suicide)?
Is Claudius really guilty of regicide?
Should I kill him in prayer (while penitent)?
How should I treat the royal appeasers: Gertrude, Polonius, Ophelia, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?
What is murder (the deaths of Polonius, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern)?
What is love (I loved Ophelia)?
What about the wronged, vengeance seeking Laertes?
In finally killing Claudius, what were my motivations (a poisoned mother, a defiled mother, treachery with a poison-tipped foil)?
Is the Norwegian avenger, Fortinbras, friend or foe?