Final answer:
Hamlet's struggle with Claudius in Act 1 embodies both internal psychological conflicts and external conflicts of revenge, with T.S. Eliot emphasizing the psychological effects of Gertrude's actions as central to Hamlet's emotional state. The ghost symbolizes wider cultural issues of the era, adding complexity to Hamlet's revenge against Claudius amidst spying activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on Act 1 of Hamlet, the conflict between Hamlet and Claudius exemplifies primarily an internal and psychological struggle, alongside the external conflict of revenge. Internal conflict is evident as Hamlet grapples with his feelings about his mother's remarriage to his uncle Claudius, his suspicions regarding his father's death, and his own thoughts about revenge and morality. Critics, such as T.S. Eliot in Hamlet and His Problems, have noted that Hamlet's inaction and hesitation are significant and cannot be solely attributed to the need for revenge or external obstacles, but rather they are deeply rooted in the psychological impact of his mother's actions and the ambiguity of the ghost's nature.
Moreover, the ghost’s appearance, which Hamlet believes is his deceased father, symbolizes the cultural context of oppression during Shakespeare's time, particularly surrounding religious beliefs such as the tension between Protestantism and Catholicism. This cultural aspect broadens the scope of Hamlet's internal struggle as it connects personal vendetta with the larger societal and cultural issues. The ghost not being an entirely reliable source further complicates Hamlet’s decision to take action against Claudius, thus amplifying his internal conflict.
On a literal level, the conflict is also external, as it involves actual plotting and spying activities between Hamlet and Claudius, showcasing a more tangible aspect of their strained relationship. Claudius's fear of Hamlet's intentions results in a counter-espionage scenario, where Hamlet conducts his own form of spying to reveal Claudius’s guilt.