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Is Hamlet considered a Hero?

  • Writer: Luca Filippazzo
    Luca Filippazzo
  • Dec 2, 2020
  • 1 min read

Updated: Feb 2, 2021

In the play written by William Shakespeare, does hamlet's story and characteristics meet the requirements of Aristotle's definition of a Hero?

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As society progresses, the definition of a hero changes based on the current situations in the world. Many who are heroes of the twenty-first century are not considered heroes based on the former definitions and expectations of a hero.


The Tragic Hero


According to Aristotle's definition of a hero, a hero must be highly renown and prosperous. He must also be rich, famous, noble, and beloved. Hamlet, as the Prince of Denmark, meets all these requirements and is proven to be considered as a Tragic Hero according to Aristotle.


Hamlet also creates his own destruction due to his own character flaws. Hamlets constant procrastination and excuse making cost him his life and the life of his mother. If Hamlet had simply killed Claudius when he had his initial chance, he would have spared the lives of many and avoided disaster.


Due to the change in expectations of a hero, many in today's society, including myself, do not view Hamlet as a modern-day hero. However, according to Aristotle, Hamlet is considered a Tragic Hero as he meets all the said requirements.



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