Religion

It been suggested that Hamlet's hesitation to kill Claudius may be as a result of the religious beliefs of Shakespeare's time.

The Reformation had generated discussion about the existence of purgatory (where the Ghost of King Hamlet claims he currently is).

The concept of purgatory (a place between heaven and hell) is a Catholic one, and was frowned on in Protestant England.

The play questions such matters and manipulates the audience’s views on religion.

Contextually this period is one of great religious confusion, which the play exploits.