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Hamlet

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Hamlet
Psychoanalytical criticism, the field of literary criticism most notably developed by Sigmund Freud’s psychological theories, reached its peak in the 1940’s and 1950’s. His widespread recognition stemmed from Freudian concepts such as the Oedipal complex, which came from his book An Interpretation of Dreams written in 1899. This theory developed by Freud says that at a very young age a child can generate an intense feeling of love for the parent of opposite sex, and an almost extreme dislike for the other parent. Freud had a great interest in literature which he often to create a much more clear picture of his theories. His greatest attachment through literature was by reading and analyzing the tragedy Hamlet by William Shakespeare. Here he explained the attachment of the theories of Oedipus complex, and Hamlets character in the story.

In the play Hamlet, Hamlet is presented as the prince of Denmark who had just returned from school upon hearing of the death of his father. To add to this horrible news of his father death he is also informed that not only did his father’s brother inherit the throne, but he is also remarrying his mother Gertrude. Hamlet has an extremely hard time accepting that his mother was able to replace his father so shortly after his death. This is what people believe brought out the reserved feelings of the Oedipus Complex in Hamlet. His feelings that had been buried deep inside him since he was a little child had risen to the surface of his unconsciousness, and make him feel disgusted. Upon hearing of the murder from his fathers ghost Hamlet swears revenge on Claudius. Not only has Claudius taken his father life but he has also stolen the throne that Hamlet wish to rein with his mother. Hamlet wishes that he was the king married to his mother. These feelings are hidden in Hamlets unconscious mind and aren’t completely exposed to him. Hamlet states "Must I remember? why, she would hang on him, As if increase of appetite had
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