In William Shakespeare's tragic play Hamlet, many relationships are put to the test throughout the play. Both loyalty and betrayal prevail in many of them during the play, and it is through the actions of these people that one is able to determine the degree to which these people care for Hamlet. Two people at complete opposite ends of the spectrum are Horatio, and Claudius. Horatio remains true and loyal to Hamlet throughout the course of the play, and proves continually that he truly does cares for Hamlet. Claudius shows his lack of care towards his nephew through both his actions and his words. His ambition to keep his position as King forces him to plot against Hamlet, which eventually leads to his death.
Horatio is, and always will be a true friend to Hamlet. He proves on and on, that he is loyal, trustworthy, and generally a good friend to Hamlet. He is the only one in the play that completely cares for Hamlet. The first instance when Horatio shows his care for Hamlet is when he informs Hamlet of the ghost that is seen. Horatio believes that it is the spirit of Hamlet's father, and feels that it is his duty to notify Hamlet of the apparition that is seen.
Two nights together had these gentlemen,.
Marcellus and Barnardo, on their watch.
In the dead waste and middle of the night.
Been thus encounter"d: a figure like your father.
Armed at point exactly, cap-a-pie, (I,ii 196-200) .
Horatio's care for Hamlet is seen here. He makes sure that Hamlet is aware of the apparition, and the events surrounding the appearance of his father's ghost. Upon hearing the news of the appearance of his father's ghost, Hamlet desires nothing more then to see the ghost with his own two eyes. He tells Horatio that he is determined to see the spirit of his father. Horatio fears that the ghost is some type of demon, which causes him to worry about Hamlet's safety. Horatio has uncertainties about whether or not the apparition is in fact the spirit of Hamlet's father, and he voices his concern for Hamlet.
