Hamlet and Psychology

Appearance versus reality is a major theme in Hamlet. What makes this such an interesting, and someone controversial topic, is because the audience is never quite sure if they can trust Hamlet’s interpretation of reality. That’s because his perception seems to be biased. Each of his relationships are skewed by his madness, which revolves around his father’s untimely death. Whether or not it’s true, Hamlet believes he sees his father’s ghost. He is also convinced that his uncle killed his father. And he is unsure as to what part his mother played in the betrayal.

In psychology, there is a field of study called “sense and perception.” The basic premise is that what our bodies sense (see, touch, taste, smell, hear) is greatly influenced by our previous experiences, biases, and beliefs. This concept can be summed up in the timeless argument of whether or not the glass is half empty, or half full. Another well known example is the picture of the “duck rabbit.” Some people see a duck, others a rabbit. The truth is, it’s a picture of both.

The way Shakespeare formatted Hamlet, we are given a very similar situation. Some may argue that Claudius did kill Hamlet’s father, meaning Hamlet’s perception of reality is right (glass half full), while others may be convinced Hamlet is completely off his rocker (glass half empty). One of the best lines to portray this concept are Gertrude’s lines after Hamlet confronts her. She says the following:

O Hamlet, speak no more:

Thou turn'st my very eyes into my soul,

And there I see such black and grained spots

As will not leave their tinct (III.iv.88-91)

...O speak to me no more;

these words like daggars enter my ears;

No more, sweet Hamlet! (III.iv.94-6)

Some may argue that Gertrude is innocent because she does not admit to the crime. However, others have stated that because she doesn’t deny the charges made against her, she’s dodging the question--because she is guilty. 
Which is true? 
It’s up to the audience to decide.

According to Oxford University researchers, “Accuracy is fundamentally about social perception. The most basic accuracy question are (1) what does someone believe? and (2) does his or her belief correspond to reality. Both are questions about content, not process.” The problem is that the audience has no idea if Hamlet’s beliefs do indeed correspond to reality. This masterful writing move forces the audience to make their own decision.
This concept reminds me of Albus Dumbledore's thought provoking lines in the final Harry Potter film.

So, what do you think? Was Hamlet crazy? Or did his uncle and mother conspire against his father? Is the glass half full, or half empty?

REFERENCE:

Jussim, Lee. Social perception and social reality: Why accuracy dominates bias and self-fulfilling prophecy. Oxford University Press, 2012.

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