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HAMLET: What is his status as a tragic hero?

I need views on Hamlet's status as a tragic hero.

One view is that 'Hamlet' is essentially a close psychological
investigation of the effect of grief. The theory current at the
time supposed the mind to be composed of four humours (eg. choler
phlegm etc). There is evidence to suggest Shakespeare was using
this theory explicitly, and composed Fortinbras, Laertes and
Hamlet specifically to demonstrate the effect of grief on their
different characters.

I'm not convinced. Any alternatives to 'Hamlet' being purely
didactic in intent?

Thanks in advance.

-----------------------------------------------------------dpdn

Posted by Cider Dave on April 14, 1997 at 10:44:50

 Replies

• Shakespeare's Father Thersites 06:35:01 4/17/97 (2)
  • Hamlet and Hamnet A C Bradley 09:55:53 4/17/97 (1)
    • Hamnet Thersites 01:47:12 4/18/97 (0)

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Replies | Post Reply | Shakespeare Queries From Genuinely Interested Students 4.2.97: Top | Help