The Noble Horatio

In the world of Hamlet a character with nobility is very hard to find. There are only two Characters that show any slight glimmer of being noble. These characters being Horatio and Laertes, the only difference between the two is that one decided that it was just to cheat death upon Hamlet by poisoning him. Laertes may seem the Noble character, but it is evident at the end of the play Laertes eventually loses all credibility of being noble. Where a noble man would honorably let his opponent have a striking chance during a duel. Laertes agrees to cunningly poison the unknowing Hamlet in the so called friendly fencing match. “With this contagion, that, if I gall him slightly, It may be death” (IV.VII.148-149). Laertes also never says that poisoning Hamlet is against his conscience he merely states it is ALMOST against his conscience and continues with stabbing and poisoning Hamlet. This proves that Laertes is not the honorable man that he was once thought to be.  “And yet it is almost against my conscience.” (V.II.287).

            Horatio on the other hand is most definitely the most honorable character in the play of Hamlet. He is a genuine friend to Hamlet despite the circumstances no matter how dire, “Never believe it: I am more an antique Roman than a Dane: Here’s yet some liquor left.” (V.II.332-5), Horatio’s heroic words prove that he is willing to commit a passionate act of suicide if it means he can still be with his treasured friend. Horatio never commits any foul doings (To the reader’s knowledge) and is always trying to help better Hamlet. The loyalty that Horatio shows throughout the play proves that he is the only character in Hamlet that is respectable and trustworthy. Even Hamlet praises Horatio for his honorable and respectable qualities. “Horatio, thou art e’en as just a man as e’er my conversation coper withal.” (III.II.52-3). These few acts of nobility solidifies Horatio’s spot as the most noble character in Hamlet.

            Nobility in the world today is just as hard to come by as it is in Hamlet. Today society has shaped people to become “Selfish Beasts” (Quoted from Brent Hurley) through the want for self-gain so they can get a seat on Forbes Top 100 and most people will attempt to achieve this almost impossible feat no matter the consequences. However there are people who have no interest in self-gain and only wish for the better of others. In the world today you will find both ignorant self-indulgent people and people who seek to mentor others of good will and happiness. It just depends in which direction you look. 

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