The question of whether Hamlet is responsible for his own tragic fate is a topic of much debate among scholars and critics of Shakespeare's play. Some argue that Hamlet's tragic fate is the result of external circumstances beyond his control, while others contend that his own flaws and decisions lead to his ultimate downfall.
On one hand, it can be argued that Hamlet is not responsible for his tragic fate, as he is placed in a difficult position by the circumstances of the play. Hamlet is faced with a moral dilemma when he learns that his father was murdered by his uncle, who has since married his mother and taken the throne. This situation creates a sense of moral ambiguity that makes it difficult for Hamlet to act decisively. Additionally, Hamlet is faced with obstacles such as the Ghost's cryptic messages and the manipulations of others, such as Polonius and Claudius. These factors suggest that Hamlet is not entirely responsible for his tragic fate.
On the other hand, it can be argued that Hamlet is responsible for his own tragic fate, as he is flawed and makes decisions that ultimately lead to his downfall. Hamlet's tragic flaw is his indecisiveness, which prevents him from taking action against Claudius in a timely manner. Instead, Hamlet becomes consumed with his own thoughts and feelings, leading to a series of rash decisions that contribute to his tragic end. For example, Hamlet mistakenly kills Polonius, which sets off a chain of events that ultimately leads to his own death. Additionally, Hamlet's actions contribute to the deaths of several other characters, including Ophelia and Laertes. These factors suggest that Hamlet is at least partially responsible for his tragic fate.
In conclusion, the question of whether Hamlet is responsible for his own tragic fate is a complex one that depends on one's interpretation of the play. While there are valid arguments on both sides, it is ultimately up to the reader or viewer to decide whether Hamlet's tragic fate is the result of external circumstances or his own flaws and decisions.