Hamlet

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How Psychoanalysis Explains the Theme of Revenge
Introduction
The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark is a play that was set in Denmark and focuses on the life of Prince Hamlet. It depicts how the Prince’s father was murdered by Claudius- Hamlet’s uncle (Shakespeare 5). Hamlet, who is now the King, embarks on a journey of revenge hoping to attack Claudius for killing his father. This paper will discuss how psychoanalytic supports the theme of revenge in the play.
Psychoanalysis and Revenge
The actions of human beings are influenced by either conscious or unconscious mind. One of the therapeutic techniques that are used to study and treat unconscious mind is referred to as Psychoanalysis. In this play, Hamlet is angry when his uncle Claudius killed his father and decided to revenge, that is why he reply’s “a little more than kin, and less than kind.” When speaking with his uncle (Hollingsworth 9). However, he is hesitant in executing the revenge, but he does not have any reasons for being hesitant. He does not know why he is feeling hesitant to punish Claudius.
Additionally, after killing Hamlet’s father, Claudius married Gertrude- the mother of Prince Hamlet. If he (Prince) kills Claudius therefore, it will imply that his mother will be left lonely, something he does not want. As per the Freud theory, it could be adduced that Hamlet has developed an oedipal desire towards his mother and for this reason, he would feel guilty to kill his husband.

In addition, Hamlet realizes that he is a sinner as well and is no better than Claudius. This could be expressed through the theory of psychoanalytic known as repressed desire. This is where one removes their desires from the conscious mind and subdues them in the unconscious mind. Due to this realization, Hamlet holds the need to revenge.
Conclusion
The main theme of this play is revenge. There are different textual pieces of evidence that can be used to explain the theme of revenge. This paper has focused on psychoanalysis which explains the delay by Hamlet in executing revenge on Claudius.
Works Cited
Hollingsworth Tamara. The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Teacher Created Materials, 2010
Shakespeare William. The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark (English German Edition illustrated). Clap Publishing, LLC., 2017.