Shakespeare shows how perceived behavior can lead others to draw incorrect conclusions about the character of others. In Hamlet's case, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are led by the king and queen to believe that Hamlet has lost his mind due to his grief. Making assumptions about those who are struck by grief or driven to madness reveals how some people like Rosencrantz and Guildenstern can be misled by weak observations, generalizations, and stereotypes. Relying on generalizations and stereotypes deprives an individual of the ability to analyze information by examining facts. Shakespeare further validates this universal truth that stereotypes can prevent accurate assessments of human nature after Claudius announces that he is king. Hamlet announces that his uncle, Claudius, “wakes up all night singing and dancing” ( ). Hamlet, who hears this commotion, says: “Other countries call us drunkards and insult our noble titles, our drunkenness diminishes our reputation, making us bad people. » (1.4.8-34). In this speech, Hamlet reveals that even countries can be affected by faulty assumptions. Throughout the play Hamlet, Shakespeare shows that it is human nature to make incorrect assumptions when ideas are only supported by stereotypes and unwarranted conclusions. Like a person who smiles