To be in a state of madness is to be in a state of mental illness. One who is described as insane often exhibits feelings of danger to themselves or others, experiences delusional behaviors such as hallucinations, and lacks the ability to understand simple skills such as reasoning. This state of decline in the character's ability to act with reason and understanding is visible in the tragedy Hamlet by William Shakespeare. Over the course of the play, Hamlet's mental well-being deteriorates, taking him further away from his previous intellectual state. His gradual lack of philosophical thought processes, abrupt changes in mood and actions obviously show his decline into madness. It is regarding the murder of Hamlet's late father as well as the impending revenge he must commit that led to his impending demise. It is because of Hamlet's inner thoughts and actions that his madness can occur. Hamlet is very irrational in the choices he makes. Hamlet insists that he has been "in continuous practice" (V.II.225) since Laertes was in France. This rash decision to fight Laertes is not well thought out and will result in the deaths of both men. Hamlet killing Polonius has a great effect on his daughter. “Poor Ophelia / Separated from herself and her righteous judgment” (IV.V.91), it is clear that Hamlet is responsible for Ophelia's madness because he ruined their love and her family. Hamlet agreeing to fence Laertes is what leads to the demise of the royal “We” (I.II.102), as well as the death of Laertes and himself. Hamlet tries to reason his illogical decision by stating: “If it happens/{now} it will not come, if it does not come it will be/now; if it is not the case now, it will nevertheless come” (V.II.234-237). This parody of a clever statement shows Hamlet's defeat by fate and his abandonment in death. It is because of Hamlet's madness that his actions lead to his death and that of those around him.