How is Hamlet's character primarily defined throughout the play?

Hamlet's character is primarily defined by his indecisiveness throughout the play. This attribute manifests significantly in his struggle to act upon his father's ghost's demand for vengeance against Claudius, the man who murdered his father. Rather than swiftly avenging his father's death, Hamlet constantly deliberates, questioning the morality of his actions and contemplating the consequences.

This indecision is evident in various soliloquies where he reflects on life, death, and his place in the world, showcasing a deep philosophical introspection that halts him from taking action. For example, in the famous "To be or not to be" soliloquy, he grapples with the theme of existence itself, illustrating his hesitance and uncertainty.

While Hamlet certainly expresses a desire for revenge and demonstrates ambition, such as when he plans the play within a play to confirm Claudius's guilt, it is his prolonged anguish and vacillation that ultimately shape his tragic narrative. His complex character study transcends mere ambition or vengeance, highlighting the tragic hero's internal conflict and emotional turmoil.