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The search for justice causes one to act blindly through anger, rather than through reason. Everyday we are confronted with a problem that requires us to make a decision. In most cases, the decisions are made without much thought, and therefore result to catastrophic consequences. In the play, Hamlet, William Shakespeare creates an elegant hero, which our modern society can relate to the individual as a deterioration of human character. Disillusionment, depression, and despair are the burning emotions churning in Hamlet's soul as he attempts to come to terms with his father's death and his mother's incestuous marriage. Unquestionably, there are many elements that compile a tragedy, which consist of everything from the murderous villain to the fallen hero. However, for a play to encompass a tragic hero, there must be a few essential components within the hero. Most importantly, the main character must be of noble birth, acquire heroic attributes, and possess a moral flaw, which leads to his own demise. Furthermore, the hero must be placed in a position beyond his control but have the ability to choose his own destiny by acting pertinently. Therefore, it is evident that Hamlet demonstrates characteristics of a tragic hero when confronting his dilemma to gain revenge upon his father’s death, however, it ultimately leads to his own demise. Like most tragic heroes, Hamlet’s nobility and valiant qualities are the main characteristics of a Shakespearean tragic hero. Specifically, his significance in the play as the Prince of Denmark, shown when Horatio says, “Hail to your lordship!” This announcement clearly shows that Hamlet has Horatio’s full respect when he calls Hamlet, “lordship.” Horatio’s welcoming statement illustrates how Hamlet has met the requirement of royalty. In addition, it appears that Hamlet has the authority to direct his friends to perform duties for him, such as looking out for the ghost in the beginning of the play, when Hamlet asks, “Indeed, indeed, sirs, but this troubles me. Hold you the watch tonight?”(I.ii.223-224) Hamlet’s friends respond by agreeing to watch for the ghost and leave Hamlet’s presence by saying, “ Our duty to your honor.”(I.ii.254) Other than Hamlet’s noble birth, his heroic quality such as his bravery also allows him to be a tragic figure in Shakespeare’s play.
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