Characters in 'Hamlet'

Characters in 'Hamlet'

1. Horatio

   • Traits
     • Loyal
       • "The same my lord, and your poor servant ever" - Horatio (25)
       • Patriotic
         • "Friends to this ground" - Horatio (3)
         • "Hail to your lordship" - Horatio (25)
       • "Be ruled, you shall not go" - Horatio (47)
     • Honest
     • Educated
       • "Thou art a scholar, speak to it Horatio" - Marcellus (5)
     • Modest
       • "Horatio, thou art e'en as just a man as e'er my conversation coped withal" / "O my dear lord -" - Hamlet, Horatio (139)
     • Cowardly
     • Reserved
       • Dependent
         • "I am more an antique Roman than a Dane. Here's yet some liquor left" - Horatio (258)
     • Rational
       • "blest are those whose blood and judgment are so well co-meddled that they are not a pipe for fortune's finger to sound what stop she please". - Hamlet (139)
     • Subservient
   • Impact on the Narrative
     • It could be said that Horatio acts as a foil to Polonius, by displaying the qualities of true loyalty and thoughtful, diplomatic advice. To this end, his character also counters those of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern.
     • Throughout the play, Horatio advises and counsels Hamlet on his choices and actions, but rarely takes action to stop Hamlet, respecting his friend and Prince. Because of this, we see the potential of Horatio as an advisor to Hamlet as a king, which adds to the tragedy of potential in the play.
     • Horatio is loyal to Hamlet, but does not have enemies within the court. He is well respected and trusted, and is courteous to his superiors. Horatio also acts as a mouthpiece for several characters, passing information to Hamlet. This shows that Horatio has diplomatic qualities that would help him to be a successful royal advisor.
   • Phlegmatic