Family Relationships in Shakespeare's Hamlet

The relationship between Hamlet and Gertrude seems to be the exception to the rule regarding parent-child connections. Although Hamlet shows clear distress about his mother's marriage to Claudius, his relationship with her is positive. Even though his mother's actions lead Hamlet to frequently criticize women in general, in obvious allusion to Gertrude's marriage, and even though Claudius' marriage to Gertrude is one of Hamlet's most important reasons for wanting to kill his uncle, he clearly has no desire to kill his mother. Instead, he politely yet firmly asks her to "go not to mine uncle's bed" (III. iv. 160). While this type of request is quite unusual for a son, by asking Gertrude this, Hamlet demonstrates concern for his mother's well-being. In response, Gertrude seems to care deeply for Hamlet. As she lies dying at the end of the play, Gertrude specifically calls for Hamlet. She says, "No, no! the drink, the drink! O my dear Hamlet! / The drink, the drink! I am poisoned" (V. ii. 314-315). Hamlet's immediate reaction is to call for everyone to seek out the treachery. Hamlet is devastated by the death of his mother, showing his close relationship with her.