* To ensure the truth is known: Hamlet knows that his actions, and the events surrounding him, have been twisted and manipulated. He wants to ensure that the truth of his revenge plot, the King's treachery, and the corruption at the Danish court are revealed to the world. He believes Horatio, as a loyal and objective friend, is the best person to do this.
* To vindicate his actions: Hamlet is aware that his actions, particularly the killing of Polonius and his feigned madness, may be seen as erratic and unjustified. He hopes Horatio's account will provide context and show that he was driven by a noble purpose – to avenge his father's death.
* To clear his name: Hamlet is worried that his reputation will be tarnished by the events of the play. He wants Horatio to be the one to tell the story of his heroism and sacrifice, to ensure his memory is not stained by falsehoods.
* To provide closure for himself: Hamlet's own death is a complex and tragic affair. He wants to be remembered as a hero, not a victim, and he believes Horatio's account will help achieve that.
Hamlet's final words to Horatio highlight his desperation:
> "If thou didst ever hold me in thy heart / Absent thee from felicity awhile, / And in this harsh world draw thy breath in pain, / To tell my story." (Act V, Scene 2)
In essence, Hamlet trusts Horatio to tell his story with integrity and compassion. He desires a truthful and honest representation of his life and death, leaving behind a legacy that transcends the chaos and tragedy that consumed him.