The protagonist of this play, Hamlet, displays positive qualities such as intelligence, loyalty, and thoughtfulness, but also negative, yet understandable, characteristics such as bitterness, anger, and violence. His ruse, feigning madness, shows his ability to be cunning and clever. His lengthy delay of vengeance could either be seen as a lack of dedication, but more likely represents his contemplative nature and desire to have substantial proof before committing murder. While Hamlet frequently appears melancholy, sarcastic, and irritable, he has been greatly wronged by his uncle, so his behavior is excusable. However, at the end of the play, Hamlet proves his loyalty, dedication, and nobility when he forgives Laertes, avenges his father’s
