Hamlet's Delay-some theories
1. The impediment of Adipose Theory
Harbage suggests that Hamlet suffers from a "lymphatic temperament" simply because he is described as being "fat and scant of breath" (Act V sc.ii) and becasue Hamlet refers to "sullied flesh" (solid?). Apparently this type of person lacks the "energizing temperament to act". It is easier to think than act. Thus the body clogs the aspirations of the mind.
2. Masochistic Hamlet Theory
Hamlet seems to be intellectually and emotionally enjoying the torment of the situation and wants to prolong it.
3. Hamlet the Melancholy Theory
Bradley suggests that the direct cause of Hamlet's delay was a state of mind "quite abnormal and induced by special circumstances", a state of profound melancholy or excessive brooding that made him too upset to do anything
4. Hamlet is Too Intellectual Theory
Coleridge suggests that Hamlet has an innate inborn quality-the inability to act, the tendency to procrastinate and the "fondness for intellectualizing everything (too introspective). Therefore, Coleridge asserts, Hamlet is continually resolving to do but does nothing to resolve."
5. Hamlet the Perfectionist Theory
It has been suggested that Hamlet wants a perfect revenge. Therefore, he takes many unusual and unique steps to attain this revenge (eg. play within the play)
6. Hamlet and Oedipus Theory
Possibly becasue of his relationship with his mother, Hamlet hesitates until he knows that his mother will approve of his actions.
7. Hamlet's New Morality Theory
Hamlet is a "Superman" (Shaw) born ahead of his time who attempts to achieve a certain moral order. In doing so, he casts aside the morality of his time (note his opposition to typical people- Osric, Polonius) and tries out a new morality that others are unwilling to accept because it is new and "abnormal". Evidence of his new attempt at morality is perhaps demonstrated in his abhorence of the "Revenge Morality" of the time that demands physical revenge for a relative's death. Therefore, Hamlet is attempting to break the revenge cycle but in doing so, only acts as a catalyst to other revenges.
***These are not my theories, but I agree most with #3,4,5, and 7. If you have an opinion on this matter, email me and tell me which one you agree with most. I will post the most popular answers on the bottom of this page.