The expression "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth" is never taken literally these days, as it only exaggerates the idea of ​​revenge or karma , but this saying took on a whole new meaning in the famous tragic revenge play Hamlet, written by William Shakespeare in 1601. What is so appealing about this masterpiece, for audiences decades old, is is the fact that revenge plays a fairly important role throughout the play, motivating not only characters but developing a broad plot. Revenge is the overarching theme that is closely tied to each character's actions, forcing some to act out of blind anger and emotion instead of thoughtful reasoning. Senseless and emotional retaliations seized Fortinbras, Laertes and Hamlet; consuming their lives with the obligation to take revenge on the people who killed their fathers. Revenge almost led to the downfall of all three men and is an emotion that is too easily rationalized. Shakespeare develops the plot using revenge as the backbone of the story, showing characters like Fortinbras and Laertes easily accomplishing their revenge while Hamlet is reluctant to kill at the slightest opportunity. As glorious as revenge may seem, it is a very dangerous theory to live by, as Hamlet makes clear. Hamlet has many plots but revenge is the main strategy developed throughout the play. Plots emphasizing revenge often focus on the protagonist seeking revenge on the antagonist for a real or imagined injury (Kramer). Revenge is often an easy plot to develop throughout a play because revenge is naturally desired but is a difficult goal to achieve. In a revenge tragedy, the focus is more on the act of revenge than on a meaningful examination of the character...... middle of paper ...... revenge games have all taken on the punishment for murder, wanting only to take revenge on the killer and to honor their deceased fathers. Three men took very significant risks, risks that affected and involved many people. Their grand gestures ultimately led to the fall of a kingdom and the loss of many souls. The vengeful determinations of Hamlet and Laertes led to death; while Fortinbras, without accomplishing or attempting his revenge, gained lands and power. Vengeance can lead to a great amount of success and wealth, or create a fatal flaw that guarantees death. Although retaliation offers a chance of survival and victory, the consequences of revenge can come back to haunt a person, especially if the revenge was motivated by unnoticed impulse rather than refined reason. Once a person fights back, a large, unbreakable chain of revenge is created..