In modern times, the word "mad" is used very loosely. It is used to describe someone who does not fit the social definition of a “normal” person. In Shakespeare's Hamlet, many readers are led to believe that Prince Hamlet has become mad due to his extraordinary portrayal of a mad man. However, the way Hamlet behaves throughout the play after many misfortunes shows not only his sanity but also his skillful way of thinking in which he fabricates madness to get closer to his enemies. To fully understand Hamlet's motivations, madness must be correctly defined. The Marriam-Webster dictionary defines insanity as an instability of the mind or a lack of understanding, usually manifesting as a specific disorder. Despite all the tragedy in the young prince's life, he is able to maintain a clear and balanced mindset while facing various adversities. The great amount of intellect he uses throughout the show speaks volumes about his state of mind. He is constantly thinking and questioning new concepts throughout the show. All of these things that Hamlet evidently displays directly contradict whether Hamlet is truly mad or is simply feigning madness. Prince Hamlet's critical and rational way of thinking shows his ability to understand concepts and consider things more thoroughly than an unstable mind could. When he is able to wrap his mind around something that others might find unfathomable, it gives him an advantage because he is able to reach higher levels of thinking that others cannot achieve. When he first sees Rosencrantz and Guildenstern he says: What a work is man! How noble in reason, how infinite in faculties, how expressed and admirable in form and movements; in action like an ange...... middle of paper ......d fast, or perhaps feeling betrayed because his uncle killed his brother - he is far from crazy. Throughout the show, he consistently behaves in a way that shows how he has meticulously thought through every action and word he has ever said or done. He feigns madness just to get closer to the people who hurt him. He is able to keep a clear mind and think rationally about things, even in the most difficult moments. He uses his judgment wisely which coincides with his great intellectual capacity. Furthermore, he constantly adapts to his surroundings to grasp concepts that help him better understand what is happening; not only in his problems but in everything. We must truly embrace the brilliance of Hamlet's character because labeling Hamlet as mad takes away the purpose for which he fabricated his madness in the first place...