Hamlet

I found our class discussion very interesting today. I always found Hamlet's lack of action almost amusing, but after thinking over his depression, I find it sad how he feels so stuck. Previous conversations pertaining to Hamlet usually centered around him being a pitiful and pathetic character. However, I believe now that he deserves sympathy. Being in a depression isn't a pleasant situation for anyone and his character could be predisposed to it. Other discussions I've had posed by other teachers is the question of whether or not Hamlet is pretending to be mad or if he really is. Anyone have an opinion on his "madness"?