Lings summarizes the theme of Hamlet as a striving for virtue by means if revenge. The only purification from corruption being seen as a complete reversal of state through the slaying of both inner and external deamons. It is not only revenge that Hamlet seeks but also honor and in this justice enherent in his duty as viceregent. He is slow to act but quick to think and the decent into madness becomes more of an esoteric and psychological journey than foolish jest. Spritual wisdom is a kind of madness. And prayer, man's chief weapon of revenge. Lings sees Hamlet as a drama of spiritual warfare. Anagogically the usurper is the bond of evil itself and to eliminate it is the liberation of the satanic grip. Regicide on the devil must be absolute, with no apologies. But when is the timing right? Lesser devils must also be vanquished. Must the queen be sacrificed to reach the check mate? Does it go willingly to the slaughter? To be ready for death when it comes is all that matters and Hamlet's spiritual magnetism tells us he has achieved this state. #bookstr