Arguments in favor of the claim that Hamlet is ill-suited:
- Hamlet's indecisiveness and procrastination: Hamlet is often seen as being too hesitant and contemplative to effectively carry out his revenge. He repeatedly delays taking action, even when he has the opportunity, which allows the situation to worsen and ultimately leads to his downfall.
- Hamlet's moral scruples: Hamlet is a complex and introspective character who grapples with moral and ethical dilemmas. He is not a natural killer and is troubled by the idea of murder, even in the name of revenge. This internal conflict further hinders his ability to act swiftly and decisively.
- Hamlet's madness: Hamlet's feigned and possibly real madness creates an additional layer of complexity to his character. It makes it difficult for him to distinguish between reality and illusion, and it further complicates his ability to make clear decisions and take decisive action.
Arguments against the claim that Hamlet is ill-suited:
- Hamlet's complexity and depth: Hamlet is a multi-layered and introspective character whose struggles and complexities make him a compelling and relatable protagonist. His internal conflicts and moral dilemmas resonate with audiences and add depth to the tragedy.
- Hamlet's intelligence and resourcefulness: Despite his indecisiveness, Hamlet is shown to be intelligent and resourceful. He is able to outwit Claudius and his allies on several occasions and uses his intelligence to devise a plan for revenge.
- Hamlet's eventual action and sacrifice: While Hamlet may delay his revenge, he does ultimately take action and sacrifices himself to avenge his father's death. His tragic end cements his status as a heroic protagonist who is willing to give up his own life to fulfill his duty.
In conclusion, there are both valid reasons to argue that Hamlet is well-suited and ill-suited to be the protagonist of a revenge tragedy. His complexity, depth, and moral struggles make him a compelling character, while his indecisiveness, moral qualms, and madness create obstacles to his success as a traditional revenge hero. Ultimately, it is up to each individual reader or interpreter to decide whether Hamlet is an effective or ineffective protagonist in this context.