Hamlet Fortinbras Compare and Contrast

In Shakespeare's famous tragedy, Hamlet, the characters of Hamlet and Fortinbras serve as intriguing foils to each other, providing insight into themes of revenge, honor, and the nature of leadership. While both characters are young princes seeking to avenge their fathers' deaths, they approach their goals in vastly different ways, highlighting the complexities of human nature and the consequences of their actions. This essay will compare and contrast the characters of Hamlet and Fortinbras, examining their similarities and differences in terms of their motivations, actions, and ultimate fates.

One of the most striking similarities between Hamlet and Fortinbras is their shared desire for revenge. Both characters are driven by the need to avenge their fathers' deaths, and this desire fuels much of the action in the play. Hamlet's famous soliloquy, "To be, or not to be," reflects his inner turmoil and his struggle with the idea of seeking revenge, while Fortinbras's determination to reclaim the lands lost by his father's defeat drives him to raise an army and march on Denmark. Both characters are motivated by a sense of duty and honor, albeit in different ways, and their actions have profound consequences for themselves and those around them.

In terms of their actions, Hamlet and Fortinbras differ significantly. Hamlet is known for his introspective and philosophical nature, often seen contemplating the nature of existence and the morality of his actions. He hesitates to take direct action against Claudius, the man responsible for his father's death, and instead engages in elaborate schemes to uncover the truth. In contrast, Fortinbras is characterized by his swift and decisive actions. He wastes no time in raising an army and marching on Denmark, showing little concern for the consequences of his actions and the lives that may be lost in the process. This contrast highlights the different approaches to leadership and the complexities of the human psyche.

Furthermore, the ultimate fates of Hamlet and Fortinbras reflect their differing approaches to their goals. Hamlet's hesitancy and internal conflict ultimately lead to his downfall, as he is killed in a duel with Laertes. In contrast, Fortinbras's bold and aggressive actions lead to his victory and the acquisition of the Danish throne. While both characters achieve their goal of avenging their fathers' deaths, their differing approaches result in vastly different outcomes, underscoring the complex nature of human decision-making and the consequences of our actions.

In conclusion, the characters of Hamlet and Fortinbras offer a fascinating study in contrasts, highlighting the complexities of human nature and the consequences of our actions. While both characters are driven by a desire for revenge and a sense of honor, their approaches and ultimate fates differ significantly. By examining their similarities and differences, we gain insight into themes of leadership, morality, and the complexities of the human psyche. Shakespeare's masterful portrayal of these two characters continues to captivate audiences and provide valuable lessons about the nature of humanity.

Overall, the comparison and contrast of Hamlet and Fortinbras offer a rich and thought-provoking exploration of themes that continue to resonate with audiences today. By analyzing their motivations, actions, and ultimate fates, we gain insight into the complexities of human nature and the consequences of our decisions. This essay has sought to illuminate the similarities and differences between these two characters, offering a deeper understanding of the themes and ideas at play in Shakespeare's timeless tragedy.

Works Cited:

Shakespeare, William. Hamlet. Edited by Ann Thompson and Neil Taylor, Arden Shakespeare, 2006.