Hamlet, King of Denmark

Hamlet by William Shakespeare — A Tragic Tale of Revenge and Madness

Short Summary

“Hamlet” is a tragedy that follows Prince Hamlet’s quest for revenge against his uncle, who has murdered his father, taken the throne, and married his mother. The play’s exploration of madness, betrayal, and existential angst has cemented its status as one of Shakespeare’s most enduring works.

Main Characters

• Hamlet: The Prince of Denmark, who is deeply affected by his father’s death and his mother’s quick remarriage. He is philosophical, contemplative, and struggles with inaction.
• Claudius: Hamlet’s uncle, who has murdered Hamlet’s father, taken the throne, and married Hamlet’s mother, Gertrude. He is cunning and manipulative.
• Gertrude: Hamlet’s mother and the Queen of Denmark. She marries Claudius shortly after her husband’s death, causing Hamlet great distress.
• Ophelia: A young noblewoman who is in love with Hamlet. She becomes a tragic figure as she is manipulated by the men in her life and ultimately descends into madness.
• Polonius: The Lord Chamberlain of Claudius’s court, and the father of Ophelia and Laertes. He is a verbose and meddling character.
• Laertes: Polonius’s son, who seeks revenge against Hamlet for…