A Compare/Contrast of Hamlet through his foils - Laertes,...

It is without doubt that William Shakespeare has created many unique, thought - provoking characters. Hamlet is by far Shakespeares most compelling character. In Shakespeares play Hamlet, various character traits, exhibited by Hamlet, can be seen through his foils. Similarities with Hamlet and Horatios education, as well as their levels, can be drawn. However, Hamlets character is in constant change and even philosophical. Fortinbras, without question encompasses many of Hamlets qualities. They are both born with nobility, along with a similar lineage. However, Fortinbras is more aggressive and even sneaky. Laertes, Hamlets late antagonist, is both impulsive and righteous. However, they differ in terms of their nobility, as well as†¦show more content†¦When the guards notice activity in the mills, Horatio says, Now, sir, young Fortinbras, Of unimproved mettle hot and full, Hath in the skirts of Norway here and there Sharked up a list of lawless resolutes, For food and diet, to some enterprise That hath a stomach in it, which is no other, ... But to recover of us, by strong hand And terms compulsatory, those foresaid lands So by his father lost. (I,i, 109- 115) In this speech, it is obvious that young Fortinbras is out for revenge. He is not content with what happened to his father. After a visit by the ghost, Hamlet says, Prompted to my revenge by heaven and hell. (II,ii,596). In this soliloquy, Hamlet mentions his existential purpose in life, which is to extract revenge for his father, as he too is unhappy with the current conditions. These two characters share similarities that they have been born into. As much similar they are, Hamlet and Fortinbras have several differences. A major distinction between Hamlet and Fortinbras is that Fortinbras is more aggressive with his intent. In Claudiuss opening speech, he says Of this his nephews purpose, - to suppress His further gait herein, in that the levies, The list and full proportions, are all made Out of his subject. And we here dispatch. (I,ii,30-33) In this speech, it is clear that Fortinbras is more driven in his purpose and has the wheels in motion. In one of Hamlets soliloquys he says, ButShow MoreRelated Contrasting Fortinbras and Laertes with Hamlet Essay1952 Words   |  8 PagesShakespeares tragedy Hamlet, Laertes, Fortinbras and Hamlet find themselves in similar situations.   While Hamlet waits for the right time to avenge his fathers death, Laertes learns of his fathers death and immediately wants vengeance, and Fortinbras awaits his chance to recapture land that used to belong to his father.   Laertes and Fortinbras go about accomplishing their desires quite differently than Hamlet.   While Hamlet acts slowly and carefully, Laertes and Fortinbras seek their revenge withRead MoreTheme Of Revenge In Hamlet1763 Words   |  8 Pagesemotions. Once that individual gets his/her revenge, a feeling of justice is established in the mind. Unfortunately, many people blindly take revenge without thinking of their actions or the consequences and believe that they will be able to move on after they take revenge. Revenge is ultimately placed in the hands of the imp atient individual who tries to control karma and does not want to wait for the universe to take action. One common theme in William Shakespeare’s Hamlet, is revenge. This tragedy isRead MoreHamlet Journal Assignments3822 Words   |  16 PagesHamlet by William Shakespeare AP English Literature Journal Assignments The following are journal entries for our reading of Hamlet. Each entry should be completed after we have finished reading and/or viewing that scene in class. The purpose is to prepare you for class discussion; therefore, you should have something written for each entry before we discuss it in class (even if it’s only a question). See Ms. M with questions ahead of time – don’t expect to be given answers in class! Be sure