close

What Words Suggest That Claudius Plans To Control Hamlet?

Updated 14 February, 2024
Answer:
In William Shakespeare's play "Hamlet", King Claudius' words and actions reveal his plan to control Prince Hamlet. Claudius employs flattery, surveillance, and threats to maintain his power and position as king. Throughout the play, he portrays himself as a cunning and manipulative figure, who is willing to resort to deceit and treachery to keep Hamlet in line. In conclusion, Claudius' plan to control Hamlet highlights his desire to retain power and authority at all costs.
Detailed answer:

In William Shakespeare's play "Hamlet", the character of Claudius, the king of Denmark, reveals through his words and actions a plan to control the protagonist, Prince Hamlet. Claudius is depicted as a cunning and manipulative figure who seeks to maintain his power and position at all costs, even if it means resorting to deceit and treachery.
Throughout the play, Claudius uses various tactics to exert control over Hamlet. One of the most prominent is flattery, as he repeatedly flatters Hamlet and tries to win his trust and favor. For example, he says to Hamlet, "Though yet of Hamlet our dear brother's death / The memory be green, and that it us befitted / To bear our hearts in grief and our whole kingdom / To be contracted in one brow of woe." This shows that Claudius is trying to make Hamlet feel valued and important, while also painting himself as a concerned and sympathetic ruler.
Another technique that Claudius employs to control Hamlet is surveillance. He orders his trusted advisor Polonius to spy on Hamlet and report back to him about the prince's behavior and intentions. Claudius also has his own spies keeping watch over Hamlet, and he himself listens in on private conversations in order to gather information about the prince.
Finally, Claudius also uses threats and intimidation to keep Hamlet in line. For example, he warns Hamlet about the dangers of revenge, saying, "It shall to the barber's with your beard. / I say, we will have no more marriages. / Those that are married already, all but one, / Shall live; the rest shall keep as they are." This shows that Claudius is willing to use violence and force to keep Hamlet under control.
In conclusion, Claudius' words and actions throughout the play suggest a clear and calculated plan to control Hamlet. Whether through flattery, surveillance, or threats, Claudius seeks to maintain his power and position as king of Denmark at all costs.

Do you have any other questions?
Question has been sent. We'll take a look at it in 1 day Ask another question
close
close

Where do you want us to send this sample?

    By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

    close

    Be careful. This essay is not unique

    This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

    Download this Sample

    Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

    close

    Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

    close

    Thanks!

    Please check your inbox.

    We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

    exit-popup-close
    We can help you get a better grade and deliver your task on time!
    • Instructions Followed To The Letter
    • Deadlines Met At Every Stage
    • Unique And Plagiarism Free
    Order your paper now