External Circumstances:
* The Murder of his Father: Hamlet is thrust into a world of betrayal and deceit when his father is murdered by his own brother, Claudius. This act of violence sets the stage for the play's central conflict and forces Hamlet to confront the darkness within his own family.
* The Ghost's Revelation: The ghost of his father reveals the truth about his murder, revealing a world where appearances are deceiving and loyalty is broken. This revelation creates a moral dilemma for Hamlet, forcing him to choose between justice and revenge.
* The Machiavellian Court: The court of Elsinore is rife with corruption and political intrigue, creating a toxic environment where honesty and truth are sacrificed for power. This treacherous atmosphere makes it difficult for Hamlet to trust anyone and creates a sense of isolation.
* Claudius's Cunning: Claudius, a cunning and ambitious king, constantly manipulates Hamlet and those around him, making it difficult for Hamlet to act decisively and carry out his revenge.
* The Political Climate: The play is set against the backdrop of a volatile political climate, where the threat of war with Norway and the potential for unrest within Denmark create a sense of urgency and pressure.
Internal Circumstances:
* Hamlet's Melancholy: Hamlet is already prone to contemplation and introspection, and the events that unfold further exacerbate his melancholic nature. This emotional state hinders his ability to act swiftly and decisively.
* His Moral Dilemma: Hamlet struggles with the ethical implications of revenge, questioning the morality of his actions and the consequences of his choices. This internal conflict further delays his actions.
* His Doubts and Hesitation: Hamlet's intellectual nature leads him to overthink and doubt his course of action, causing him to procrastinate and ultimately contribute to his downfall.
* His Philosophical Musings: Hamlet's philosophical musings on life, death, and the human condition further complicate his actions. His intellectualism and introspective nature make him slow to act and make him question the value of revenge itself.
Conclusion:
While Hamlet's actions are ultimately his own, the circumstances he faces contribute significantly to his tragic fate. The external forces of betrayal, manipulation, and political turmoil, combined with his internal struggles with morality, doubt, and philosophical contemplation, create a perfect storm of misfortune that ultimately leads to his demise.