The most important line in Hamlet is, 'The play's the thing, wherein I'll catch the conscience of the king.' (II, ii, 617). In the play, the issue of a clear conscience forms a key motif. When the conscience of the characters appears, it does so as a result of some action; as in the case of the aforementioned line, which follows Hamlet's conversation with the player. This line is of particular significance because it ties …showed first 75 words of 718 total…

…showed last 75 words of 718 total…all serve to clear the Prince's conscience. From the aforementioned first soliloquy to his last soliloquy following his conversation with the captain of Fortinbras forces, Hamlet's conscience is affected by some action. Hamlet's decision's are keyed by pondering over his conscience and it is the decisions he makes which further the actions of the play. It is action which prompts Hamlet to mull over his conscience, and the clearing of his conscience which prompts action.