Hamlet Characters

Hamlet Prince of Denmark–Son of the dead King Hamlet and nephew to the present ruler of Denmark; he has returned to Elsinore because of his father’s death.
Claudius King of Denmark–Hamlet’s uncle who succeeded his brother to the throne and married his brother’s wife.
Gertrude Queen of Denmark and mother of Hamlet; married to Claudius.
Polonius Elderly Lord Chamberlain and thus chief counselor to Claudius.
Horatio Commoner who is a fellow student and loyal friend of Hamlet.
Laertes Polonius’ son, a student at the University of Paris who, like Hamlet, has returned to Elsinore because of King Hamlet’s death.
Ophelia Obedient daughter of Polonius and sister of Laertes; the young court lady who Gertrude hoped would be Hamlet’s bride.
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern One-time schoolfellows and friends of Hamlet.
Fortinbras Prince of Norway, a valiant young man, who, like Hamlet, has lost a father
Osric Affected courtier who plays a minor role as the King’s messenger and an umpire of the fencing match between Hamlet and Laertes.
Voltimand and Cornelius Danish courtiers who are sent as ambassadors to the Court of Norway.
Marcellus and Bernardo Danish officers on guard at the castle of Elsinore.
Francisco Danish soldier on guard duty at the castle of Elsinore.
Reynaldo Young man whom Polonius instructs and sends to Paris to observe and report on Laertes’ conduct.
August 13, 2019