Character Analysis (OCR A-Level English Literature): Revision Notes
Character Analysis
Understanding characters in Hamlet
In Hamlet, characters function as more than just individuals in a story. Shakespeare uses each character symbolically to explore ideas that were important in his society. The differences between characters reflect debates and conflicts of the time. To fully understand the play, you need to study each character individually and also consider how they compare and contrast with one another.
Characters in Shakespeare's plays are conscious constructs — they are deliberately crafted to serve specific dramatic and thematic purposes rather than existing as real people.
Main characters
Hamlet
Hamlet is the protagonist of the play, and his character centres on internal conflict and a series of difficult moral choices. When we first meet him, he is in mourning for his deceased father. From the beginning, he displays deep melancholy and inner turmoil. His emotional distress grows worse because of his mother's quick remarriage to his uncle Claudius, which Hamlet views as incestuous. The sudden death of his father, his mother's hasty new marriage, and the appearance of his father's ghost all contribute to Hamlet's psychological decline.
Hamlet's introspective nature becomes clear through his soliloquies, particularly the famous "To be or not to be" speech. This soliloquy reveals his contemplation of existential themes concerning life and death. Through these reflective moments, Hamlet grapples with the complexities of human existence and the uncertainties surrounding mortality.
A defining feature of Hamlet's character is his internal struggle. He faces a profound moral dilemma: avenging his father's murder requires violence and deception, yet he engages in deep internal questioning about the ethical consequences of his actions. This inner turmoil adds layers of depth to his character, showing someone torn between duty and morality.
His reluctance to seek revenge stems not from simple indecision but from his moral compass. During his introspective journey, Hamlet reaches an important realization about the inherent duality of humanity, which encompasses both good and evil. This acceptance reflects his evolving understanding of human nature's complexities.
Hamlet embodies the existential themes that run throughout the play. He explores profound questions about the meaning of life, the afterlife, and the nature of human existence. This constant questioning illustrates his deep-seated existential anxiety. His scepticism regarding the motivations and authenticity of those around him significantly contributes to the atmosphere of mistrust and deceit within the play. His continual sense of doubt acts as a catalyst for the tension and suspicion that characterizes relationships in the play.
Throughout the play, Hamlet undertakes a quest for truth, both external and internal. He uses the play-within-a-play device to uncover Claudius's guilt and confirm the ghost's accusations. Similarly, he undergoes a profound internal journey, unravelling his own identity, values, and purpose. This self-discovery proves agonising but ultimately transformative, leading to a tragic yet meaningful conclusion.
Hamlet's affection for both his mother and Ophelia becomes tainted, fostering an obsessive repulsion toward sexuality and love. His strained relationship with Queen Gertrude reflects his feelings of betrayal and disillusionment. He struggles to accept his mother's guilt and becomes convinced that every woman is a "breeder of sins". This sentiment illustrates both his emotional turmoil and the depth of his disillusionment with those he should inherently trust.
In his interactions with Ophelia, Hamlet's attitudes toward love and women range from disgust and anger to grief and betrayal. Consequently, he denies her his love, driven by the emotional turmoil within himself. Hamlet uses Ophelia to express his revulsion toward his mother's sexuality. By displacing Gertrude's guilt onto Ophelia, he can deny and punish his mother for her actions. This displacement of emotions reveals Hamlet's internal struggles.
However, Hamlet's relationships with Horatio and the gravedigger serve as important examples of his capacity to form meaningful connections with individuals who share his intellectual and moral integrity. These friendships highlight his capacity for genuine human connection amid the surrounding chaos.
Hamlet's complex relationship with Claudius underscores the overarching theme of corruption within the Danish court. The play-within-a-play exposes Claudius's guilt and demonstrates Hamlet's intellect.
As the play progresses, a more mature and introspective Hamlet emerges. He contemplates life's fragilities without bitterness or fear. Hamlet accepts his destiny and becomes reconciled to the flawed nature of humanity. He acknowledges his own shortcomings and prepares himself for his imminent death.
Different Interpretations of Hamlet:
Tragic Hero Interpretation: Some traditional interpretations portray Hamlet as a classic tragic hero. In this view, Hamlet possesses noble qualities but is flawed by his indecision, procrastination, and obsession with revenge. His tragic downfall results from these flaws.
Psychological Interpretation: Some interpretations examine Hamlet's psychological complexity, suggesting he may suffer from depression, anxiety, or even a form of madness. His erratic behaviour and introspective nature are seen as manifestations of his inner turmoil.
Political/Social Critique Interpretation: Some interpretations underscore Hamlet's role as a political figure and view the play as social critique. Hamlet's delay in avenging his father's murder is seen as commentary on the corrupt and morally compromised society of the Danish court.
Claudius
Claudius appears as the play's antagonist, presented as someone relentless in his pursuit of power and control. He orchestrates a murderous plot to seize the throne by poisoning his brother. He marries Queen Gertrude shortly after King Hamlet's death, successfully preventing any potential opposition. His ability to manipulate the court, the nobility, and even the populace underscores his political shrewdness.
Throughout the play, Claudius is haunted by an overwhelming sense of guilt. He struggles with the enormity of his crime and remains fully aware of the moral implications of his actions. Although he attempts to seek redemption through prayer, his sincerity is undermined by fear. This internal struggle between remorse and self-preservation presents a complex portrait of Claudius, revealing someone tormented by his own malevolent choices.
While Claudius struggles with his conscience, Hamlet wrestles with the daunting task of avenging his father's murder. Shakespeare juxtaposes Claudius's internal struggle with Hamlet's external quest for revenge. Hamlet's interactions with Claudius are fraught with tension and stand as central points of conflict within the play. The relationship between Hamlet and Claudius serves as the pivotal axis around which the play's action revolves.
Claudius's character gains depth when viewed in contrast to Hamlet's deceased father, who is idealised throughout the play. The stark contrast between the idealised image of the late king and Claudius, his murderer, serves as a constant reminder of Claudius's moral deviation and the gravity of his crime.
However, Claudius is not the one-dimensional villain that Hamlet portrays him to be. Evidence of Claudius's conscience surfaces in his soliloquy in Act III, Scene III, when Shakespeare allows the audience to consider whether there is any trace of remorse in his actions. This moment offers a glimpse into the internal struggle of a character who may not be entirely devoid of moral integrity.
Furthermore, he could be viewed as having genuine affection for Gertrude and may feel remorse for his actions.
Despite his villainous acts, Claudius also possesses some commendable qualities. He is portrayed as quick-witted, intelligent, reasonable, and a competent and decisive king. These traits challenge the audience to reconcile his admirable qualities with his malevolent deeds.
Most critics view Claudius as wicked due to his deliberate scheming to have Hamlet murdered in England. He is a skilled opportunist in contrast to Hamlet, who finds action difficult. He uses the murder of Polonius and the anger of Laertes as tools to destroy Hamlet. However, his own actions prove to be his final undoing. Although Hamlet finally avenges his father's murder, this is achieved through Hamlet's virtuous acceptance of his destiny and through the failure of Claudius's plotting.
Some interpretations view Claudius as a vulnerable and insecure character. He lives in constant fear of being exposed for his crime and is consumed with paranoia.
Gertrude
Queen Gertrude holds a pivotal role in the play as Hamlet's mother and the new wife of King Claudius. Within the play, Gertrude exists more as a character defined by her relationships with others rather than as a complete character in her own right.
Although she has hastily married her deceased husband's brother, there is no clear evidence within the play that she is aware of Claudius's murderous ascent to the throne. However, the audience knows that Gertrude had an adulterous relationship with Claudius before he became king. The Ghost of King Hamlet attributes Gertrude's moral failing to her weakness and holds Claudius accountable for exploiting her vulnerability.
The extent of guilt borne by Gertrude remains subject to interpretation, leaving her moral standing ambiguous and open to different interpretations. This ambiguity makes Gertrude one of the most debated characters in the play.
Some interpretations suggest that Gertrude is complicit in King Hamlet's murder and that she may share some degree of guilt with Claudius. This interpretation suggests she may have had knowledge of the murder, and her willingness to marry Claudius is therefore viewed as morally compromising. Furthermore, the swiftness of Gertrude's remarriage to Claudius immediately after King Hamlet's death raises doubts about her loyalty and motivations. Her marriage to Claudius serves as the catalyst for the play's central conflict, inciting Hamlet's quest for vengeance. This conflict underscores the complex moral landscape within the play.
Some interpretations present Gertrude as an innocent victim caught in the machinations of the male characters in the play. She may be seen as a pawn in Claudius's schemes, and her hasty marriage to him may be viewed as a result of her vulnerability rather than malicious intent.
Gertrude's actions and choices serve as emblematic of the broader theme of familial dysfunction and highlight the impact of parental decisions on their children. Hamlet's criticism of his mother reflects his disillusionment with women and his perception of female frailty. Hamlet perceives her remarriage as a betrayal of his father's memory, leading to his bitter condemnation of her actions.
Throughout the play, Gertrude's maternal instincts come under scrutiny as her loyalty to Claudius appears to outweigh her concern for Hamlet's well-being. Some interpretations have explored the idea that Gertrude may have neglected her maternal responsibilities toward Hamlet. Her remarriage to Claudius and her apparent indifference to Hamlet's emotional state may be viewed as evidence of this neglect.
Alternatively, some interpretations view Gertrude primarily as a maternal figure. Her actions may be driven by a desire to protect her son and maintain stability within the court.
Gertrude's death marks a tragic turning point in the play's resolution. Her death, along with other key deaths in the final act, contributes to the play's tragic conclusion.
Ophelia
Ophelia is depicted as a character of ethereal beauty, marked by purity and sexual innocence. She serves as a stark contrast to the character of Gertrude.
Initially introduced as a figure characterised by innocence and submissiveness, Ophelia's relationship with her father, Polonius, is characterised by obedience. She often finds herself manipulated and used as a pawn in the political schemes of the court. Her compliance with her father's wishes and her brother Laertes's advice underscores her limited agency. This illustrates the societal constraints placed upon her due to her gender and status.
Among the main characters, Ophelia stands out as the only one untouched by guilt. This highlights her moral purity and innocence within the play's complex moral dilemmas.
Ophelia's genuine love for Hamlet is portrayed through her innocent and vulnerable interactions with him. Her initial interactions with Hamlet convey her genuine affection and sincerity. These traits further convey her purity in a world tainted by deception and moral ambiguity.
Ophelia's character serves as a lens through which Hamlet's own predicament is highlighted. It helps to provide further insight into his complex emotional state and the challenges he faces.
Ophelia lacks the emotional strength and maturity to cope with her father's murder and Hamlet's rejection. As a character, she undergoes a tragic transformation and spirals into madness. This descent is catalysed by the trauma of her father's death, Hamlet's erratic behaviour, and the political chaos of the court.
Ophelia's madness is symbolised by her fragmented songs and disjointed speeches. These reflect her fractured mental state and contribute to the overall tragedy of her situation.
However, Ophelia is not merely a passive victim. Throughout the play, the audience witnesses glimpses of her wit and strength in her exchanges with Hamlet and her brother Laertes. These moments reveal both her resilience and intelligence as a character.
The burial scene, marked by Laertes's grief and Hamlet's contemplation of mortality, adds a layer of sadness to Ophelia's fate. This scene serves as a poignant culmination of her character's tragedy and underscores the sadness surrounding her madness and death.
Different Interpretations of Ophelia:
Empowerment Through Madness: Some interpretations suggest that Ophelia's descent into madness is an empowering act. Her madness allows her to break free from societal constraints and express herself in ways she could not before.
Agency in Tragedy: Some interpretations of Ophelia depict her as an agent in her own tragedy. Rather than being entirely passive, she may be seen as making choices that lead to her tragic fate. This exposes her to the political intrigue and danger of the court.
Other characters
Polonius
Polonius emerges as a character marked by his cunning and deceit. He partakes in nefarious and corrupt actions throughout the play.
Polonius's character serves as a reflection of the corruption within the court, embodying the theme of deceit and moral decay that plagues the royal circle. He employs his cunning and manipulation to safeguard his position and further his political agenda. He epitomises the treacherous nature of the court. His position underscores his role as a tool for political manoeuvring, even if it means exploiting his own family members as pawns in order to gain power and influence.
A significant aspect of Polonius's character is defined by his relationships with his children, Ophelia and Laertes. His advice to Laertes before his departure illustrates his desire to control and protect his son. This demonstrates his paternal instincts, albeit in a controlling manner.
However, his treatment of Ophelia is more manipulative. He pressures her to end her relationship with Hamlet and leverages her emotions as political tools to protect the state and the royal family's interests. This manipulative use of his daughter underscores the darker aspects of Polonius's character, revealing the depths to which he is willing to descend for political gain.
His eventual demise, orchestrated by Hamlet, becomes the catalyst for the play's final action and marks a crucial turning point in the play. It underscores the consequences of his cunning and deceit.
As a character, Polonius also embodies the dual facets of comedy and politics within the play. He is depicted as a comic figure due to his verbosity and tendency to deliver long-winded and convoluted speeches. His frequent use of proverbs and aphorisms contributes to the play's comedic elements and provides moments of humour amid the darker and more tragic aspects of the play.
Additionally, Polonius's character serves as a contrast to Hamlet's introspection and cynicism. While Hamlet contemplates profound philosophical questions, Polonius's comic nature and superficial wisdom provide a counterpoint.
Laertes
Laertes is depicted as a character characterised by recklessness, ruthlessness, shallowness, and immaturity. He serves as a cautionary tale as he is easily manipulated by the cunning Claudius to serve his own nefarious purposes.
In sharp contrast to the thoughtful and careful Horatio, Laertes impulsively rushes into situations. He often loses his temper and acts without forethought.
Similar to Hamlet, Laertes seeks revenge for his father's murder, ultimately dying in the process. This underscores the depth of his commitment to avenging his family's honour, even if it means participating in dishonourable acts such as conspiring with Claudius to kill Hamlet.
Laertes's character serves to illuminate Hamlet's internal struggles and the consequences of Hamlet's hesitation to take decisive action against King Claudius. While Hamlet is prone to indecision and contemplation, Laertes is action-oriented, quick to seek revenge, and driven by his impulsive nature. Laertes's unwavering commitment to vengeance stands in contrast to Hamlet's more intricate and morally fraught approach to seeking revenge.
However, as the play progresses, Laertes's character goes through a transformation. Towards the end of the play, he confesses his wicked deeds against Hamlet, repents for his actions, and seeks forgiveness.
Horatio
Horatio is presented as Hamlet's steadfast friend and confidant. Horatio's character serves as a poignant counterpoint to Hamlet's emotional and intellectual complexity.
Throughout the play, Horatio's unwavering loyalty and clear thinking provide crucial support for Hamlet. This underscores the theme of friendship and trust.
Horatio's scepticism and rationality are evident when confronted with the supernatural elements of the play. Unlike Hamlet's willingness to accept the ghost's revelations and seek revenge, Horatio approaches the situation with caution and advises Hamlet to be wary.
Horatio's rationality extends to his ability to discern deceit and manipulation within the court. He is quick to recognise Claudius's treachery.
The Ghost of King Hamlet
The Ghost of King Hamlet is introduced in Act I, Scene V. He is described as having a countenance more in sorrow than in anger.
Serving as a catalyst for the play, the Ghost's demand for revenge drives Hamlet to seek vengeance against Claudius. This establishes the central conflict in the play.
The Ghost's motivation primarily revolves around seeking justice and ensuring that Hamlet fulfils his moral and familial duty to restore rightful order in Denmark. The Ghost's revelations about Claudius's murder of King Hamlet underscore the theme of corruption and the corrupting influence of power within the royal court.
Hamlet's interactions with the Ghost contribute significantly to his growing sense of madness and obsession with revenge. These interactions raise questions about the thin line between sanity and madness, prompting contemplation on whether the Ghost is a manifestation of Hamlet's inner turmoil or an external supernatural force compelling him toward revenge.
The Ghost's presence and its impact on Hamlet's psyche further add to the exploration of madness, revenge, and moral responsibility within the play.
Exam guidance
In your exam, you should demonstrate that characters are conscious constructs. Show a firm understanding that Shakespeare deliberately created these characters to perform certain functions within his play.
Analytical Approach to Characters:
For instance, consider why Shakespeare chose to present Ophelia in the way that he does. Her presence is felt more through her actions and interactions with other characters rather than through direct speech. Explore reasons why Shakespeare may have chosen to present Ophelia in this way.
Apply this same analytical approach to all characters — always ask yourself what dramatic or thematic purpose each character serves.
Key Points to Remember:
- Characters in Hamlet function symbolically to explore ideas prevalent in Shakespeare's society
- Hamlet is defined by internal conflict, philosophical contemplation, and the quest for truth and revenge
- Claudius is a complex antagonist driven by ambition but haunted by guilt
- Gertrude's moral standing remains ambiguous, and she is defined primarily through her relationships
- Ophelia represents innocence and purity but tragically descends into madness
- Minor characters like Polonius, Laertes, Horatio, and the Ghost each serve important functions in developing themes and contrasting with Hamlet's character
- Always consider characters as deliberate constructs created by Shakespeare to serve specific dramatic and thematic purposes