Character: Hamlet Summary: Hamlet is the tragic protagonist and titular character of William Shakespeare's play, "Hamlet." He is the Prince of Denmark, the son of King Hamlet and Queen Gertrude. The play revolves around Hamlet's quest for revenge after his father's death and the tumultuous events that unfold as a result. Hamlet is a complex and introspective character, known for his profound philosophical and psychological musings. He is deeply distraught by his father's sudden demise and feels betrayed by his mother's hasty remarriage to his uncle, Claudius, who has usurped the throne. Hamlet is visited by the ghost of his father, who reveals that he was murdered by Claudius, and he is tasked with avenging his death. Throughout the play, Hamlet grapples with his own identity and the conflicting emotions and desires within him. He often contemplates the nature of life, death, and the meaning of existence. Hamlet's famous soliloquies, such as the "To be or not to be" speech, reflect his inner turmoil and his struggle with indecision. As the play progresses, Hamlet's mental state deteriorates, leading to his erratic behavior and feigned madness. He is torn between his duty to avenge his father's murder and his doubts about the ghost's true intentions. Hamlet becomes increasingly isolated and distrustful of others.