Hamlet

Plot

After the death of the King, Claudius marries his widow and assumes the throne. Young Hamlet, appalled by the lack of respect for his father shows disdain and becomes distant. The ghost of his father soon appears to reveal the nature of his death to be a murder committed by Claudius. In an attempt to avenge his fathers death, Hamlet devises a plan to trick his uncle into confessing to his crimes.

Themes

Appearance Vs. Reality

Appearance

A common theme in the works of Shakespeare is the inclusion of appearance in contrast to reality. Much of the plot and important events occur because of a skewed perception of certain conversations or actions of the characters. This provides intense theatrics and creates a high stakes environment that sparks drastic and outlandish reactions from the characters.

One key example of this occurs when the play-within-a-play commences. The intent behind to play is to invoke guilt and confession from Claudius. Claudius is one character who utilizes the mask of appearances to win over his subjects and deflect any indication that he played a part in his brothers passing.

The Ghost of old Hamlet

One crucial example of the significance of appearance versus reality is the ghost of old Hamlet. The ghost appears and shares the truth about the nature of Hamlet's father's death. Despite Hamlet's urgency to avenge his father, he notably questions what the truth is and ponders if the ghost truly was his father, or if it could be the devil seeking to deceive him and tempt him to commit murder.

Reality

It is continuously demonstrated that many of the characters will go to great lengths to follow through with their will by any means necessary, whether it be lying to loved ones, or being the cause of a death often cloaking themselves with traits of decency and trustworthiness. However the reality of these deceptive affairs almost always becomes revealed.

For example, Once Hamlet discovers the truth about his fathers death and that his uncle is responsible, he is determine to reveal the truth and strip Claudius of his feelings of security and is determined to undermine his plan.

Friendship

The theme of friendship is woven through Hamlet in a number of ways. Hamlets' disconnect from his family leads him to turn to his friends for guidance and devotion. Horatio is the epitome of care and trust for Hamlet. His bravery and unwavering faith in Hamlet demonstrates his loyalty and accountability, proving him an important ally.

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern on the other hand, despite being old school friends of Hamlet, do not have his best interests at heart. Having been sent to spy on him, by his uncle, the two exhibit the ways that deceit and dubious actions hinder friendships.