"The Revenge Wrapped in Tragedy" Hamlet is more a tragedy than a revenge play. Discuss this idea by examining three essential elements of the play that make it a tragedy.

Shakespeare's Hamlet is more of a tragedy than a revenge plot in that it follows the unfortunate downfall of a prince due to his vengeful goal rather than the honour or justice brought about by his revenge. The tragedy underlies the plot in three fateful elements: death, corruption and betrayal, themes that echo throughout the play and resonate in each character's actions ultimately leading to their own demise, whether by their own hand or someone …

…survived until today. Although written in the time of Elizabeth I, Hamlet's struggle within himself still interests us today. With the death of innocence, the corruption of the court and the betrayal of a family, the picture of tragedy is complete and as Horatio stands in the midst of all this, he simply wishes the tired and troubled Prince of Denmark "good night [...] and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!" (V. ii. 348-350)