Hamlet is without any reservations, one of Shakespeare's most mystifying plays. Although the play has a concise story, it is filled with many uncertainties relating to different issues behind the plot. The reader is left with many uncertainties about the true feelings of prince Hamlet. One question in particular is, did Hamlet really love Ophelia? This dispute can be reinforced either way, however I believe Hamlet was truly in love with Ophelia. Support for my decision comes from Hamlet's treatment towards Ophelia is shown throughout the play, but especially in Act 3, Scene 2, and at Ophelia's grave in Scene 1 of Act 5.

This play is about the troubles encountered by young prince Hamlet as he tries to seek revenge for his father's
Hamlet must end their thoughts of using Ophelia to rid him of his condition. To do this he must destroy all the current feelings Ophelia has for him and he does so very well, perhaps too well. Now that Ophelia feelings for him have lessened, he must work quickly to obtain his uncle's confession so that he might again have Ophelia' love. Hamlet's plan develops when actors arrive in Elsinor. He uses their skill by relieving the mystery of his father's death in a production with hopes of getting his uncles confession. Hamlet confidently states, "The play's the thing Wherein I'll catch the conscience of the King." (2.2.617).

It is Act 3 Scene 1, here is where it is possible to really consider Hamlet's love for Ophelia. Prior to visiting with her, Hamlet states in a soliloquy his famous "to be or not to be" speech in which he contemplates suicide. By this point his purpose for revenge has made him all the more miserable, and cynical. As Ophelia enters, Hamlet's spirits seemed to be aroused as he addresses her, "The fair Ophelia! Nymph in thy orisons be all my sins remembered." (3.1.88-89). Moreover, Hamlet recognizes the importance of his affections towards Ophelia, and in regards to Ophelia's beauty, Hamlet states "That if you be honest and fair, your honesty should admit no discourse to your beauty." (3.1.107-108). Clearly, Hamlet is saying that indeed,