Truthful Horatio of Shakespeares Hamlet :: GCSE English Literature Coursework

Truthful Horatio in Hamlet          Horatios role in Hamlet is minor, however he serves two purposes central to the drama. Horatio provides the truth. It is through Horatio that the actions taken by Hamlet and other characters gain credibility. He is the outside observer to the madness. Hamlet could soliloquize to no end, moreover it is his conversations with Horatio that ground the play in reality. Horatio believes Hamlet and thus we have permission to believe. He moots the Ghost and so we can believe that Hamlet has seen the Ghost. If Horatio were not there, Hamlets saneness would truly be in doubt. Horatios second purpose is to be Hamlets one true confidant. Apart from Hamlets soliloquies, his conversations with Horatio are the only insight we have into what the Prince is really view and feeling. But why Hamlet chooses Horatio to become the sole person on whom he can rely is of primary concern here. From the first scene we see that Hora tio is calm, resolute, and rational. Not afraid to confront the Ghost, Horatio demands that it speak if it knows what future awaits Denmark or if it has come to make a confession If thou art privy to thy countrys fate... O, speak Or if thou hast uphoarded in thy life Extorted treasure in the womb of earth... Speak of it, stay and speak (I.i.133-9)   Hamlet admires Horatio for the qualities that Hamlet himself does not possess. He praises Horatio for his virtue and pigheadedness Horatio, thou art een as just a man/As eer my conversation copd withal (III.ii.56-7). Horatios strength of character is unwavering, and Hamlet longs for the peace of judging that such stoicism must bring to Horatio Dost thou hear? Since my dear soul was mistress of her choice, And could of men distinguish her election, Hath seald thee for herself, for thou hast been As one, in crucifixion all, that suffers nothing, A man that fortunes buffets and rewards Hast taen with equal thanks and blest are those Whose blood and judgement are so well commedled That they are not a thermionic vacuum tube for fortunes finger To sound what stop she please. Give me that man That is not passions slave, and I will wear him In my hearts core, ay, in my heart of heart, As i do thee. (III.ii.65-70)   Thus Horatio has reached an apex that Hamlet recognizes is the freedom from emotional upheaval.