The character of Hamlet is elevated above countless other similar tragic heroes because of Hamlet's awareness of the moral complexities and theological issues involved in the revenge plot. Hamlet's display of distraction is curious because his actions alone are not that of a madman, yet his private thoughts and musings suggest that he is insane. The source of this distraction may lie in his aboriginal addiction to thought and his inability to act decisively. (A Critical Analysis of Hamlet's Madness, West Cordell)
Shakespeare's Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark is based on a 12th centu…