William Shakespeare's Hamlet depicts the story of a distraught prince attempting to avenge the wrongful death of his father. Many critics have associated Hamlet’s actions with his tragic flaw, but it is often overlooked how friendship played a role in Hamlet’s apparent self-destruction. In Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet's relationships can be easily distinguished. His relationship with Horatio proves to represent the epitome of rational thinking and true friendship; however, his relationship with Rosencratz …showed first 75 words of 738 total…

…showed last 75 words of 738 total…Act 3 Scene 2 Line 330-335) As the play reaches its climax, Horatio is the one who stands by Hamlet’s side. Although he is prepared to join Hamlet in death, he refrains simply so he can insure that Hamlet’s name will be unblemished after his death. Horatio possesses a strong morals, integrity and intelligence. Hamlet's fondness for Horatio escalates to an admiration for his character. Horatio represents the judgment and rationality that Hamlet never had.