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Madness is often portrayed as random actions of insanity. However, Shakespeare's tragic hero, Hamlet shows this is not true. His apparent madness was actually a series of pre-meditated actions. After meeting with his father’s ghost, Hamlet cunningly devises a plan to “put an antic disposition on"(fake his madness) (1, 5, 192) in order to seek more answers to this mysterious death of his father. Although very convincing, Hamlet’s “antic disposition” does not completely fool everyone. …

…understand. Hamlet shows that he has the ability to reason and exposes Claudius’ guilt with an ingenious plan (the mousetrap). Claudius and Polonius are on to Hamlet’s act from the beginning and both say so. Claudius tries to eliminate Hamlet. Polonius sees “method” in Hamlet’s words. Hamlet shows time and time again he is sane. Hamlet cautions not to underestimate an opponent because they could very well be putting on an “antic disposition.”