from Inna

This is a wonderful essay written by Francis Jacox in 1877, entitled "Horatio: Hamlet's Confidant". It explores the relationship between Horatio and Hamlet - one that is often overlooked. Horatio is often on stage without saying anything. He is a quiet observer and a grounding force for the plot and the prince himself (very different from the characters of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern). One of the most touching and powerful moments of the play is the final exchange between Horatio and Hamlet, before the latter dies. I think it is important for those that play these two characters to look at that exchange and weave it backwards through the play to understand why Horatio and Hamlet act the way they do.

http://www.theatrehistory.com/british/hamlet014.html