Here's a breakdown of her role in the play:
* Queen of Denmark: Gertrude is the wife of the late King Hamlet and the current queen, married to her deceased husband's brother, Claudius.
* A complex character: She is often portrayed as a woman caught in a difficult situation, grappling with grief, guilt, and love. Her quick marriage to Claudius after King Hamlet's death is seen as a betrayal by Hamlet and others.
* A source of conflict: Her relationship with Claudius and her actions throughout the play contribute significantly to the drama and tension within the story.
* Motherly love: Despite her flaws, she deeply cares for Hamlet and struggles to understand and support him.
* Tragic figure: Ultimately, she is a victim of circumstance and manipulative forces.
While Gertrude's motivations and character are open to interpretation, she is a pivotal character in *Hamlet*, driving the plot and contributing to the play's themes of betrayal, grief, and the complexities of human relationships.