We can see the significance of this contributing to Hamlets character development, as Shakespeare was writing at a time of political, social and religious uncertainty. Hamlet could just be echoing his insecurity over failing to murder Claudius - the play is full of contradiction, uncertainties and inconsistencies. The reasons for Hamlets consistent delay might be supposed to remain uncertain, signalling that his character is developing in terms of increase in cautiousness and analysing the reality of the situation before making a move on his conflict with Claudius.
