had to be completely sure before acting. Hamlet was completely aware of his actions and what was morally correct. Hamlet never lost sight of his objective to expose the King’s sin of murdering his father and obtaining revenge. Hamlet was completely sane throughout the tragedy. When Hamlet began to put the pieces of his father’s murder together, he paid special attention to his uncle Claudius. “It is not very strange; for my uncle is King of Denmark, and those that would make mows at him while my father lived, give twenty, forty, fifty, a hundred ducats a-piece for his picture in little. ‘Sblood, there is something in this more than natural, if philosophy could find it out. (II. ii. 366-371). Hamlet knows that his uncle is the murderer. Claudius further makes it difficult to uncover the truth by announcing that Hamlet is next in line for the throne of Denmark. Shakespeare shows the theme of appearances is deceptive by having Claudius appear to exhibit some affection towards Hamlet. Claudius appears to be a kind and loving person. “As of a father; for let the world take note, You are the most immediate to our throne; And with no less nobility of love than that which dearest father bears his son do I impart toward you” (I ii. 108-112). Appearances play a major role in the everyday life of an individual. The different appearances in this tragedy make it unique. Through the characters within the play all help to show the theme, appearance verses reality. Polonius, Rosencrantz, Guildenstern, and the King all appear to be good and honest. As Hamlet later finds out, all contain lies and have hidden intentions within them. Hamlet uses his knowledge about the other individuals to solve the mystery of their true appearances.Throughout the play Hamlet makes wise decisions to prove he is not insane. He knows exactly what he is leading up to. Hamlet displays indecisiveness by thinking about...
