Why Did Claudius Want The Death of Hamlet

Claudius' Motivation: Why Kill Hamlet?

In William Shakespeare's famous play, "Hamlet," there's this character, Claudius. He's the King of Denmark and is kinda a big deal in how things go down. But why does he want Hamlet out of the picture? It's like this burning question that keeps popping up when you dig into the story: why is Claudius so set on getting rid of Hamlet? This essay's gonna take a closer look at what drives Claudius to want Hamlet dead. We’ll check out different parts of the play to make our case. By piecing together clues and diving deep into their meanings, we'll figure out what makes Claudius tick and why he’s got it in for Hamlet.

The Political Game

To get why Claudius wants Hamlet gone, first, we gotta look at the politics between them. Claudius just snagged the crown as the King of Denmark. So, naturally, he's sweating over Hamlet since he's actually supposed to be king next in line. Act I, Scene V gives us a peek into Claudius' mind when he talks about Hamlet acting all gloomy. He says something like, “His father's death and our o'erhasty marriage…are the main motives of our preparations.” Translation? He knows that Hamlet’s still bummed about his dad and not cool with mom marrying so fast might stir up trouble for him. Getting rid of Hamlet means keeping his seat on the throne nice and warm without any threats.

Guilt Trips

Another reason for wanting Hamlet six feet under? Claudius is carrying around a load of guilt for offing King Hamlet (that's Hamlet's dad). In Act III, Scene III, there’s this deep moment where Claudius spills his guts in a soliloquy saying, “O, my offense is rank, it smells to heaven…my crown, mine own ambition, and my queen.” It's clear as day; his conscience is eating him alive 'cause he killed to climb up the ladder. Seeing Hamlet around is like a constant reminder of his dirty deed. If he knocks off Hamlet, maybe he can shake off some of that guilt too.

Keeping Up Appearances

Claudius also wants to keep his kingdom looking all shiny and peaceful-like. In Act IV, Scene VII, while chatting with Laertes, he says something like “O, yet defend me, friends, I am but hurt.” He’s worried 'cause people are starting to rally around Hamlet. Everyone's loving on him and feeling sorry for him which doesn’t sit well with Claudius' image as king. If Hamlet’s outta sight? That illusion of a happy kingdom stays intact.

Avoiding The Truth Bomb

Then there's Claudius’ fear about being exposed. As the play rolls on, Hamlet gets more suspicious about his uncle’s role in his dad’s murder. Remember Act III, Scene II? When Hamlet sets up that play trap? He goes all detective mode saying “The play's the thing wherein I'll catch the conscience of the King.” Claudius knows what's up and realizes how dangerous this could get for him if word gets out. To silence any whispers or evidence pointing fingers at him? Bye-bye Hamlet!

Wrapping It All Up

So yeah—why does Claudius want to wipe out Hamlet in Shakespeare's drama? There's more than one angle here! Whether it's political fears or guilt gnawing away at him or wanting to keep things looking peachy-keen—or just plain covering his tracks—it's all tangled together making sense why he'd wanna see an end to Prince Hammy boy himself! Understanding these layers helps shine some light on what drives Claudius forward—and reveals deeper themes like power struggles...guilt trips...ambitious dreams...and sneaky deceit woven throughout Shakespeare's masterpiece leaving folks fascinated by its crazy intricate plot!

References:

• Shakespeare, W., & Hoy C., (Ed.). (1996). Hamlet. W.W. Norton & Company.
• Sutherland J., & Watts S., (2000). Henry V: War Criminal? Oxford University Press.
• Bloom H., (2003). Hamlet: Poem Unlimited. Riverhead Books.
• Mabillard A., (2021). An analysis of Major Characters in Hamlet. Shakespeare Online.
• Pittman L., (2019). Understanding Hamlet: A Student Casebook to Issues Sources and Historical Documents.