HAMLET (THE MADMAN?)

     The definition of sanity is the ability to think and behave in a normal and rational manner.  The definition of insanity is the state of being seriously mentally ill. Therefore, is Hamlet sane or insane? This is a controversy that intrigues the minds of many scholars. Many people ignorantly believe Hamlet to be insane. Meanwhile, I disagree. After reflecting on Hamlet's life, comparing it to my own, and putting myself into his shoes, I believe Hamlet to be sane without question. 

     Within a short matter of time, Hamlet lost his father, was betrayed by his mother, and was forced into a hateful relationship with his uncle. Hamlet was betrayed by the only people in this world who are supposed to be there for you no matter what. The one man who he looked up to and truly loved as his father was taken away from him by cruel and selfish murder. His mother and uncle never took his feelings into consideration and only thought of themselves and their meaningless power. Feeling all this betrayal and loneliness at once, wouldn't the sane thing to do would be to go crazy? Although, the definition for sanity is the ability to think and behave in a normal and rational manner. Going crazy while being thrown into such a dark world would be the normal thing to do. Remaining calm in this situation label you as insane. 

     In my life's experiences, I have also been through some very challenging times that have made me question my own sanity. Like Hamlet, I have lost someone very close to me and have felt betrayed by someone I once loved. When you go through hard times like this, it's human instinct to feel isolated and helpless.