... lies the man who was both, a failure precisely because he was both." Holland's characterization and analysis of Horatio and of Fortinbras is hardly groundbreaking and is easily supported by the text of the play. Holland's analysis of Hamlet, however, is thought provoking and begs further investigation. Hamlet is undoubtedly a man of ... which Hamlet is set, it was uncommon for one to doubt the existence of apparitions as evidenced by Shakespeare's inclusion of the ghost as a supporting character in the play. This skepticism of ghosts sets Horatio apart as a man of reason and a man of tho...

• Word Count: 1002
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School

... , is unable to do so right away. Shakespeare purposely makes Hamlet out to be a procrastinator for one very important reason, if Hamlet would have quickly pursued this revenge, Gertrude, Polonius, Ophelia, Rosencrantz, Guildenstern, Laertes, and of course Hamlet himself would have survived and Shakespeare would not have achieved tragedy in this play. There are many explanations for Hamlet's long delay, some ... to do because he ends up thinking about it for too long. This leads him being known as a character that is full of purpose, but lacks the quality required to accomplish that purpo...

• Word Count: 1180
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School

... B.C., Aristotle defined the characteristics of a tragic hero. According to Aristotelian dramatic theory, a tragic hero is usually a man of noble standing and good character who possesses a tragic flaw, or hamartia, which eventually contributes to his demise. The tragic hero usually undertakes a task and, in the process of this ... an error in judgment. Though this topic is extensively debated by literary critics, Hamlet's tragic flaw, in my opinion, is his intense over-analysis. He is too conscious of the consequences of his actions. He literally over thinks every decision he makes becau...

• Word Count: 814
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School