The progression of Hamlet's character traits, notably his judgment and sanity, is evident throughout the play. Hamlet's thought and emotions presented in act one are clearly distinguished from his character presented in the final act. Act one portrays a lonesome, conservative young man troubled by his family's selfishness and disunion. The final act portrays a distraught, immoral man seemingly steadfast in his resolve to avenge his father's death and royal family. Hamlet's superficial attitude in the final act fools the audience to believe that Hamlet is an honest, unfortunate character. In truth, the subtle, progressing madness and selfishness of Hamlet is a product of his own troubled conscience, leading him to a dreadful demise.

Recently following the murder of the king, Hamlet is immediately submerged in a troubling mental and physical quarrel with his own conscience in Act one. The burden that is inherent to a prince contains...