him, informing his son about Claudius ' treachery and requesting that Hamlet avenge his father 's murder. Although he agrees to carry out the act of vengeance, he questions his decision to avenge his father; this is most evident when he exclaims "thus conscience does make cowards of us all" (III.I.91). By "conscience," Hamlet is referring to his morality; although he fears the consequences of murdering Claudius, he feels obligated to continue with his promise to his father's ghost. His indecision is revealed when he uses the word "cowards;" when exacting revenge, there is no room for cowardice because it ultimately leads to impotence. His statements clearly show that his conscience hinders his ability to contin
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