Final answer:
Hamlet's decision not to kill Claudius is often debated, with some attributing it to hubris, while others cite his moral dilemma or political symbolism. His complex internal conflict is highlighted by his emotional turmoil and the influence of Elizabethan beliefs about ghosts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hamlet's decision to not kill Claudius when he has the opportunity is a complex element of Shakespeare's play, often debated among scholars. The attribution of hubris to Hamlet is an interpretation that suggests his excessive pride or self-confidence leads him to believe he can afford to wait for a more perfect moment to exact his revenge. However, other interpretations suggest Hamlet's hesitation is not due to hubris but rather his moral dilemma, intellectual nature, and doubt about the ghost's veracity. An example from the critique of this topic says that the 'madness' of Hamlet was less about a deliberate plan and more an expression of intense emotion without clear direction, highlighting the character's complexity and deep internal conflict. Moreover, the consideration that the ghost may symbolize the oppression of Catholics during Shakespeare's time adds another layer to Hamlet's indecision. It suggests that Hamlet's reluctance could stem from a deeper political and religious significance rather than mere personal failings such as hubris. Therefore, it is important to analyze Hamlet’s actions within the context of Elizabethan beliefs about ghosts and the afterlife, as well as the psychological and emotional struggles that Hamlet undergoes throughout the play, rather than simply attributing his decision to a character flaw like hubris.