Abstract: Hamlet has been a controversial character in the world of literature. The reasons of his tragic image have been being argued by scholars and critics for centuries. Although there are many authoritative comments on this issue, there is still not a satisfying one. Thus this thesis aims to give an analysis on Hamlet’s tragic image in a more comprehensive way on the purpose to gain some access to better understanding of Hamlet.
This thesis firstly displays the features of Hamlet’s tragic image, and then analyzes the reasons of Hamlet’s tragic image in the light of both objective reasons and subjective reasons. And finally it draws a conclusion that Hamlet’s tragic image is caused by many aspects, but not simply because of the weakness of his own personality or the environment that he lives in.
Key words: Hamlet; tragic image; reason
CONTENTS
Introduction 1
1. The General Idea of Hamlet 1
2. The Features of Hamlet’s Tragic Image 3
2.1 Humanism of Hamlet 3
2.2 Complex Characteristic of Hamlet 4
2.3 Delay in Action 4
2.4 Tragic End of Hamlet 4
3. Reasons of Hamlet’s Tragic Image 5
3.1 Subjective Reasons 5
3.1.1 Weakness of Personality 5
3.1.2 Isolation from Possible Forces 7
3.1.3 Religious Superstition of Hamlet 9
3.1.4 Oedipus Complex of Hamlet 10
3.2 Objective Reasons 11
3.2.1 Social Status of Hamlet 11
3.2.3 Social Reality 14
3.2.3 Limitation of Shakespeare 15
4. Conclusion 16
Bibliography 18
