An extended question that arises in Hamlet is: why is there a delay in the actions of the Prince? Many take Hamlet's hesitation for cowardice, but Hamlet is actually one of Shakespeare's strongest protagonists and does not hesitate due to fear, rather prolongs due to meticulousness. Hamlet is a play of vainglorious characters who commit mostly impulsive actions which creates an environment both confusing and intricate, but most importantly vulnerable. Among this cast of brash characters is Hamlet, the only true character who "thinks- rather than "acts- while weighing his responsibilities to himself, to his father, and most importantly to his country. Essentially Hamlet is the only non selfish character who understands his actions not only affect his immediate surroundings but also an entire kingdom, and therefore Hamlet waits for the perfect time to commit his duty. Overall Hamlet is a collected character, in a period in which most people would falter due to stress, that will not act too quickly and without proper justification. .
The first example within the play that shows Hamlet's true character occurs when Hamlet sees the ghost of his father, "Ghost: Revenge his foul and most unnatural murder. Murder most foul, as in the best it is, But this most foul strange, and unnatural Adieu, adieu, adieu. Remember me Hamlet: So, uncle, there you are. Now to my word. I have sworn't- (1.5.50-210). These lines show Hamlets initial reaction to the news of a crime most heinous. He does not completely loose grip and enter into the crazy state everyone believes he is in, which shows Hamlet is a character who has full control over his emotions. At this point of the play Hamlet could just simply avenge his father's murder, but instead he pretends to go "crazy."" Hamlet's plan works perfectly because he fools everyone that doesn't know the truth of the murder to think he is crazy, crazy for love. His plan shows the audience that he is the most intelligent character in the play because of his perfect use of indirection.
