Shakespeare's Hamlet Main Character Contradiction - Essay Example

A good starting point in arguing that Hamlet is not a hero is a closer look at the significant factors which make a hero. The most generally accepted definition of a hero is "a person noted for feats of courage or nobility of purpose, especially one who has risked or sacrifice his or her own life (Hero 1)." It should also be added that a hero "possesses abilities to perform extraordinary, beneficial deeds for which he or she is famous (Hero 1)." A hero is often contrasted to a villain is an evil character in a story.

Apparently, Hamlet is a villain. However, just because he is the main character in the story, he is mistakenly regarded as a tragic hero who, amidst his flaws and shortcomings is still dignified. Looking at the play, Hamlet killed Polonius with no remorse which drives his "beloved" Ophelia. He was also so overwhelmed with his vengeance and become directly and indirectly responsible to the death of almost all the characters. It should be noted that his demise could also be linked with his doings.

The acts of Hamlet can consider villainous as the reasons behind these are not beneficial to others but are solely self-serving. Hamlet's "honorable" deed of killing Claudius to avenge his father, together with his self-centered soliloquies are strong proofs of his evil character. It should be noted that Hamlet falls short of what a hero should be like. He is neither courageous nor noble. His quest to avenge his father by dethroning Claudius reveals his cowardice. Should Hamlet wanted true justice; he should have sought it in the proper manner.