Essay Plan

The examiner is looking for you to show that you understand the idea of the tragic flaw and how Hamlet’s character in many ways determines his fate. You should try to consider both sides of the argument.

Plan

1 – Introduction

What are you going to do? You are going to argue either for or against this statement, i.e In this essay I am going to explore the fact that Hamlet’s inaction leads to his downfall

2 – Hamlet’s attitude

Hamlet possesses characteristics that lead to his downfall E.g his melancholy state, his inability to act.

3 - Hamlet is responsible

Select examples which support the statement that Hamlet is responsible and why you think he is \is not responsible for his own fate

4 – Hamlet isn’t responsible

Select a few examples which support the idea that Hamlet is not responsible E.g consider how much power he actually has, consider whether he could or could act, was it appropriate?

Is life a controllable force?

Did Hamlet really know the consequences of his actions?

5 – Conclusion

Come to a firm conclusion do you or do you not agree with the statement?

To what extent do you or do you not agree?

Maybe end with a quotation