The role of minor characters in works is generally to accentuate the support and influence of the protagonist and also to symbolically reveal behavioral patterns in human nature. In Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter Pearl, the child of Hester and Dimmesdale symbolized the passion, innocence, and ignorance of her parents' love and relationship. Similarly Shakespeare creates minor characters Horatio, Ophelia and Queen Gertrude to shape the thematic elements of Hamlet; essentially highlighting aspects of human conditions.

Horatio's introduction in Act 1.1 outlines his practicality and reasonable manner. Marcellus and Bernardo's reaction to the ghost is fearful and rather superstitious, but Horatio maintains a more scientific, logical approach to the ghost's arrival. Shakespeare writes, "Before my God, I might not this believe without the sensible and true avouch of mine own eyes." (60-62) Seeing is believing marks Horatio's nature. His symbol of reason throughout the play is also shown in...