1. Final Thoughts: Tragedy, Imagery ,and Theme
Hamlet
Final Thoughts: Tragedy, Imagery ,and Theme

2. Tragedy: When the protagonist dies
Hamartia: tragic flaw/excess of some character trait that leads to his downfall and the downfall of others
Tragic hero: character of high standing who must oppose some conflicting force, either external/internal
Hamlet must face the evil forces of his uncle
Hamlet’s lack of action and thoughtfulness are his hamartia or tragic flaws
Hamlet’s death releases him from life’s burdens
His country is released from the disorder and chaos caused by the evil influences that have caused Hamlet’s downfall.

3. Weeds—”unweeded garden that grows to seed) Decomposition/Decay
Imagery in Hamlet
Most of the imagery in the play is concerned with Denmark’s rottenness and Hamlet’s disgust with it.
Disease
Weeds—”unweeded garden that grows to seed)
Decomposition/Decay
Flower imagery (Ophelia, funeral, wedding)j

4. Evil deeds beget (cause further) evil deeds
Themes in Hamlet
When the natural order is out of balance, then all society becomes disordered
Evil deeds beget (cause further) evil deeds
One cannot escape the guilt of a purely heinous act such as murder
Good ultimately will overcome evil
Be cautious of ambition. Too much of it may cause one to cause evil deeds.
Friendship and loyalty are better than power and money.
Be wary of those that counsel you to commit evil acts.
Being overly reflective may prevent necessary action
Revenge may ultimately cause one’s own downfall