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Literature in English
Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Theme of “Revenge”
By: Hassaan Ahmed Chaudhary

Revenge - Complexities of Emotions

Revenge, as depicted in Shakespeare's "Hamlet," is not merely a theme but a complex web that
explores the depths of human emotion, ethics, and consciousness. Each aspect of this intricate theme
offers a profound examination of the nature of vengeance and its implications on the human psyche
and moral compass.
1. Complexities of Vengeance: "Hamlet" unravels the intricacies of revenge through its
protagonist, who is trapped in a moral and psychological labyrinth. Shakespeare presents
revenge as a force that consumes the individual, highlighting its potential to corrupt and the
cyclical violence it engenders. The play questions the efficacy and justice of revenge, as
Hamlet's hesitation and contemplation reveal the torment and inner conflict it breeds. This
portrayal underscores the psychological toll of vengeance, as it ensnares individuals in a
perpetual struggle between action and inaction, duty and doubt.
2. Morality: The theme of revenge in "Hamlet" is inextricably linked with the moral dilemmas it
presents. The play probes the righteousness of avenging a wrong through actions that mirror
the initial transgression. Shakespeare delves into the ethical quandaries faced by Hamlet, who
grapples with the morality of killing in the name of justice. This moral ambiguity is central to
the play's exploration of revenge, challenging the audience to reflect on the justifiability of
retribution and the potential for moral decay in the pursuit of vengeance.
3. Human Psyche: At its core, "Hamlet" is a profound study of the human psyche under the
strain of revenge. Hamlet's soliloquies offer a window into the tumultuous emotional and
psychological landscape wrought by his quest for vengeance. Shakespeare examines how the
pursuit of revenge can lead to existential crises, as Hamlet confronts questions of identity,
purpose, and the nature of existence. The play highlights the psychological complexities of
revenge, portraying it as a force that can destabilise one's sense of self and reality.

Hamlet - Motivations for seeking Revenge

Hamlet, the protagonist of Shakespeare's eponymous tragedy, is one of the most complex characters in
literary history, embodying the multifaceted nature of revenge, morality, and the human psyche. His
motivations for seeking revenge are deeply intertwined with his moral convictions, emotional turmoil,
and intellectual contemplations, making his character a rich subject for analysis. Motivations for
Seeking Revenge:
1. Filial Duty and Honor: At the heart of Hamlet's quest for revenge is the ghostly apparition of
his father, the late King Hamlet, who reveals the circumstances of his murder at the hands of
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Claudius, Hamlet's uncle. The revelation imposes a duty on Hamlet to avenge his father's
wrongful death, framing revenge as an obligation of filial piety and honor. This duty is a
driving force behind Hamlet's actions, though his approach to fulfilling this duty is marked by
complexity and hesitation.
2. Moral and Ethical Justice: Hamlet is not merely driven by personal vendetta; he is also
motivated by a deeper sense of moral and ethical justice. The usurpation of the throne by
Claudius, through regicide and incestuous marriage to Hamlet's mother, Gertrude, represents a
profound disturbance of the natural and moral order. Hamlet's pursuit of revenge is thus
framed as an endeavor to restore this order, highlighting his concern with justice and
righteousness beyond personal grief.
3. Psychological Conflict and Existential Inquiry: Central to Hamlet's motivations is his
profound psychological and existential turmoil. He is a deeply reflective and contemplative
character, tormented by doubts, moral dilemmas, and questions about life, death, and the
nature of existence. This introspection contributes to his procrastination and complex
approach to revenge. Hamlet's famous soliloquy, "To be, or not to be," encapsulates his
existential inquiry and the depth of his inner conflict, as he contemplates the meaning of
action, suffering, and the inevitability of death.
4. Desire for Certainty and the Struggle with Action: Hamlet's intellectual nature and his desire
for certainty also play crucial roles in his motivations. His need to ascertain the truth of the
ghost's claims leads him to stage "The Mousetrap," a play within the play, to observe
Claudius's reaction. This desire for incontrovertible proof of Claudius's guilt exemplifies
Hamlet's analytical mind and his struggle with the impulse to act decisively. His hesitation is
not merely a symptom of cowardice but a manifestation of his deep-seated need for moral and
factual certainty.

Ghost - Driving the Revenge Plot

The Ghost in Shakespeare's "Hamlet" plays a pivotal role in propelling the narrative of revenge and
setting the entire tragedy into motion. As the specter of Hamlet's deceased father, the former King of
Denmark, the Ghost is a catalyst for the unfolding events, imbuing the plot with supernatural elements
that underscore the themes of vengeance, morality, and the unseen forces that guide human actions. Its
appearances and communications with Hamlet serve several critical functions in driving the revenge
plot:
1. Inciting Action: The Ghost's initial appearance and its subsequent revelation to Hamlet about
the circumstances of its murder serve as the inciting incident for the play. By entrusting
Hamlet with the truth about Claudius's regicide and incest, and charging him with the task of
avenging his untimely death, the Ghost directly motivates Hamlet's pursuit of revenge. This
charge sets the stage for the internal and external conflicts that define the narrative.
2. Moral and Ethical Dilemmas: The Ghost introduces a complex moral and ethical dimension to
the revenge plot. Hamlet is faced with the duty to obey his father's command to exact revenge,
which conflicts with his moral and philosophical beliefs about justice, duty, and the morality
of murder. This tension between the supernatural injunction and human morality is central to
Hamlet's character development and the thematic depth of the play.
3. Legitimacy and Truth: The Ghost's revelations also raise questions about legitimacy and truth.
Hamlet's quest for verification of the Ghost's claims reflects the theme of appearance versus
reality, a recurring motif in the play. The specter's account compels Hamlet—and, by
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extension, the audience—to ponder the nature of truth, the reliability of perceptions, and the
extent to which unseen, supernatural forces influence the course of human life.
4. Psychological Impact: The Ghost significantly impacts Hamlet's psychological state. Its
appearances and the heavy burden it places on Hamlet exacerbate the prince's existential and
philosophical crisis, deepening his melancholy and driving his contemplations on life, death,
and the afterlife. The Ghost's influence extends beyond the call for vengeance, contributing to
Hamlet's introspection and emotional turmoil.
5. Engagement with the Supernatural: Through the Ghost, Shakespeare explores themes of the
supernatural and its intersection with the human world. The Ghost embodies the unresolved
tensions between the past and present, the ethical implications of revenge, and the question of
what lies beyond death. Its presence in the play invites considerations of fate, destiny, and the
divine right of kings, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

Comparison of Revenge Plots: Hamlet, Laertes, Fortinbras

Shakespeare's "Hamlet" intricately weaves together multiple revenge plots, each carried out by
characters with distinct motivations and methods, reflecting the thematic complexity and moral
ambiguity surrounding the concept of vengeance. The three principal figures involved in these
revenge narratives are Hamlet, Laertes, and Fortinbras, whose quests for retribution not only drive the
play's action but also offer a comparative study of the nature of revenge and its consequences.
1. Hamlet: Hamlet's pursuit of revenge is ignited by the Ghost's revelation of Claudius's
treachery. His approach to revenge is characterized by contemplation, moral deliberation, and
existential questioning. Hamlet's intellectual nature and his profound concern with the
righteousness of his cause lead to hesitancy and procrastination. His quest is as much an
internal struggle with his conscience and identity as it is an external fight against his uncle.
Hamlet's path to revenge is marked by a deep philosophical inquiry into life, death, and the
moral implications of his actions, culminating in a tragic realization of the futility and
destructiveness of vengeance.
2. Laertes: In contrast, Laertes's approach to revenge is straightforward and impulsive. After
learning of his father Polonius's death at the hands of Hamlet, Laertes swiftly returns to
Denmark, burning with a desire for immediate retribution. He is less concerned with the
moral or existential implications of his quest and more focused on honoring his father's
memory through swift action. Laertes's willingness to engage in underhanded tactics, such as
the poisoned sword plot, underscores his singular focus on revenge, regardless of the ethical
costs. His narrative illustrates the dangers of unchecked vengeance and the ease with which
grief and anger can be manipulated for destructive ends.
3. Fortinbras: Fortinbras, the Prince of Norway, represents another facet of the revenge motif.
His quest for vengeance is driven by a desire to reclaim lands lost by his father in a duel with
King Hamlet. Unlike Hamlet and Laertes, Fortinbras's approach to revenge is methodical,
disciplined, and rooted in political and military ambition. His narrative is more backgrounded
in the play, but he serves as a foil to Hamlet, illustrating an alternative model of
action-oriented leadership and the pursuit of revenge within the bounds of duty and honor.
Fortinbras's successful reclaiming of Danish lands by the play's end juxtaposes the tragic
outcomes of Hamlet's and Laertes's more personal vendettas.
Comparative Analysis: The contrasting revenge plots of Hamlet, Laertes, and Fortinbras illuminate
the multifaceted nature of vengeance. Hamlet's philosophical and indecisive approach, Laertes's
impulsivity and disregard for moral consequences, and Fortinbras's disciplined, politically motivated
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campaign represent different responses to the call for vengeance. These narratives collectively explore
the themes of justice, morality, duty, and the human condition, offering insights into the consequences
of revenge—both as a personal crusade and as a matter of statecraft. The tragedy of Hamlet and
Laertes, contrasted with Fortinbras's relative success, suggests that the pursuit of revenge can lead to
ruin, especially when it consumes the individual and eclipses all other considerations. Through these
characters, Shakespeare presents a nuanced examination of revenge, ultimately questioning its value
and highlighting its capacity to engender cycles of violence and destruction.

The usage of Language and Imagery to convey Revenge

Shakespeare's "Hamlet" masterfully employs language and imagery to convey the complex theme of
revenge, weaving a rich tapestry of words that capture the emotional intensity, moral ambiguity, and
psychological depth of the narrative. Through vivid imagery, metaphorical language, and the strategic
use of soliloquies, Shakespeare explores the nuances of vengeance, its motivations, and its
repercussions.
1. Imagery and Symbolism: The imagery in "Hamlet" often revolves around decay, disease, and
poison, serving as powerful metaphors for the corrupting nature of revenge. The ghostly
apparition of King Hamlet, described as being in a "complete steel" with a "countenance more
in sorrow than in anger," introduces the theme of unnatural death and the moral decay it
brings. The imagery of poison, particularly in the murder of King Hamlet by a "leperous
distilment" and Hamlet's description of Denmark as "an unweeded garden" overrun with
"things rank and gross in nature," symbolizes the pervasive corruption and moral decay that
revenge engenders within the individual and society.
2. Metaphorical Language: Shakespeare uses metaphorical language to deepen the exploration
of revenge. Hamlet's contemplation of life and death, encapsulated in the "To be, or not to be"
soliloquy, uses metaphors of sleep and dreams to ponder the nature of existence and the
unknown afterlife. This philosophical inquiry, while broader than the theme of revenge,
contextualizes Hamlet's internal conflict over his vengeful mission, portraying it as a struggle
against the existential dread of uncertain consequences.
3. Soliloquies: Hamlet's soliloquies are crucial to conveying the theme of revenge, as they offer
insight into his thoughts, emotions, and dilemmas. Through these monologues, Shakespeare
presents Hamlet's internal debate over the morality and efficacy of revenge. For example, in
the soliloquy following the player's speech, Hamlet chastises himself for his inaction and
questions his courage and resolve, illustrating the deep psychological conflict revenge has
stirred within him. The soliloquies also reveal Hamlet's evolution over the course of the play,
as he moves from indecision to acceptance of his fate, underscoring the transformative power
of the quest for vengeance.
4. Play within a Play: The use of the play within a play, "The Mousetrap," is another linguistic
strategy to highlight the theme of revenge. Through this metatheatrical device, Shakespeare
not only advances the plot but also uses the players' performance to reflect on the nature of
revenge and justice. The reactions of the characters to the staged murder mirror the broader
societal and moral implications of seeking vengeance, emphasizing the blurred lines between
justice and retribution, performance and reality.
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The usage of Dramatic Methods to convey Revenge
Shakespeare's "Hamlet" employs a variety of dramatic methods to engage the audience, enhance the
storytelling, and deepen the thematic resonance of the play. These techniques not only captivate the
audience but also invite them to reflect on the complexities of the human condition, the nature of
revenge, and the interplay between appearance and reality. Some of the key dramatic methods used in
"Hamlet" include:
1. Soliloquies and Aside: Soliloquies and asides are used extensively in "Hamlet" to provide
insight into the characters' inner thoughts and feelings, especially Hamlet's. Through
soliloquies, the audience gains access to Hamlet's contemplations on death, morality, revenge,
and existential doubt, fostering a deeper understanding of his character and the play's themes.
These moments of introspection create a direct connection between Hamlet and the audience,
making the viewers privy to his most intimate thoughts and conflicts.
2. The Play Within a Play ("The Mousetrap"): "The Mousetrap" is a brilliant example of
metatheatre that serves multiple functions: it advances the plot by exposing Claudius's guilt,
reflects on the theme of appearance versus reality, and comments on the power of theater
itself to reveal truth. By staging a play that mirrors the events of King Hamlet's murder,
Shakespeare blurs the lines between fiction and reality, engaging the audience in a reflection
on the nature of performance and the capacity of art to imitate life.
3. Supernatural Elements: The appearance of the Ghost of King Hamlet introduces a
supernatural element that heightens the dramatic tension and mystery of the play. The Ghost
not only sets the revenge plot in motion but also raises questions about the afterlife, justice,
and the moral implications of vengeance. By incorporating the supernatural, Shakespeare
engages the audience's imagination and draws them into the ethereal and moral complexities
of the narrative.
4. Dramatic Irony: Shakespeare employs dramatic irony to enhance the audience's engagement
and understanding of the plot and characters. For example, the audience is aware of Hamlet's
feigned madness and the true nature of his father's death long before most characters in the
play. This knowledge creates a sense of anticipation and tension as the audience watches
characters navigate through misinformation and deceit.
5. Conflict and Tension: The interplay of internal and external conflicts within "Hamlet" drives
the dramatic tension throughout the play. The audience witnesses Hamlet's struggle with his
conscience, his hesitancy to act, and his descent into madness, alongside the political intrigue,
familial betrayal, and the unfolding revenge plots. These conflicts keep the audience engaged,
as they are eager to see how these tensions will be resolved.
6. Symbolism and Imagery: The use of symbolism and imagery enriches the play's thematic
depth and visual appeal. Symbols such as Yorick's skull in the graveyard scene evoke
reflections on mortality, the fleeting nature of life, and the equality of all in death, engaging
the audience in Hamlet's philosophical musings. Similarly, the imagery of poison and disease
woven throughout the dialogue symbolizes the moral corruption infesting Denmark, visually
and conceptually engaging the audience with the play's critique of deceit and treachery. By
employing these dramatic methods, Shakespeare not only crafts a compelling narrative but
also creates a layered and immersive theatrical experience. "Hamlet" challenges the audience
to ponder deep questions about life, death, morality, and the nature of truth, ensuring its
enduring appeal and relevance.