Fate & Character

This paper analyzes the cause of the tragic ending in Hamlet from the angle of fate tragedy and character tragedy. In this play the plot develops according to two clues, of which the process of Hamlet's revenge is the major one while the development of love between Hamlet and Ophelia is subordinate. Based on the analyses of the obstacles Hamlet is confronted in the revenge, together with the nature of Hamlet and social background, this paper holds that the tragic ending of Hamlet's revenge rests mainly with external power. Chronologically, this paper divides the process of the development of Hamlet's love for Ophelia into three phases: from deep love to hesitation and then to fading. With psychological analyses of Hamlet in different phases, it holds that the tragic flaw of Ophelia should be responsible for the love tragedy. Chapter one explains the concept of fate tragedy and character tragedy; chapter two discusses the obstacles that are confronted to Hamlet's revenge; chapter three mainly illustrates how Ophelia step by step loses Hamlet's favor; and finally the conclusion is drawn that the simultaneous employment of fate and character in Hamlet gives birth to its stirring tragic effect.