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Hamlet Character Analysis

Examine the similarities and the differences between Fortinbras Jr., Hamlet, and Laertes in reference to their paths for vengeance. In your answer, you must address the reasons (why they do it) for their quests, their plans to carry them out, the rationales (how they justify it) behind each character's plan, their methods. and any possible consequences/from these actions that occurred throughout the play. You must provide at least 2 direct references for each character that would provide insight and support for your claims. As always, you must remember to explain the significance/relevance of the reference, and not just simply place it in the answer. Your focus must include Acts I-V. Be certain that you examine key aspects throughout Acts I-V in your answer, and not just the beginning and/or the end of the play. It is important that you address the similarities and differences specifically, and not simply present each character as a separate piece.

Full Answer Section

Hamlet: Hamlet's motivation is internalized, shrouded in grief and existential contemplation. The ghost's command to "Revenge his foul and most unnatural murder" (Act I, Scene 5) triggers an internal conflict, paralyzing him with doubt and moral introspection.
Laertes: Laertes' rage erupts after Polonius's murder, fueled by filial love and impulsive passion. He seeks immediate vengeance without contemplating consequences, driven by a raw need for retribution (Act IV, Scene 5).

The Plans:

Fortinbras: Methodical and calculating, Fortinbras raises an army and strategically waits for the ideal moment to strike (Act IV, Scene 4). He demonstrates political savvy and a focus on achieving his goal at minimal cost.
Hamlet: Hamstrung by indecision, Hamlet's plans shift like desert sands. He contemplates elaborate traps, feigns madness, and even considers suicide (Act III, Scene 1). His internal struggle manifests in constant revisions and delays.
Laertes: Fueled by anger, Laertes readily joins Claudius's plot to poison Hamlet (Act IV, Scene 7). His plan is rash and opportunistic, relying on deception and violence to quickly settle the score.

The Justifications:

Fortinbras: His claim rests on legal and historical grounds, making his quest for revenge seem almost chivalric. He frames it as an act of reclaiming rightful legacy, not driven by personal vendetta (Act IV, Scene 5).
Hamlet: Grappling with moral complexities, Hamlet wrestles with whether revenge is an ethical response to his father's murder. He questions the validity of the ghost's command and considers the potential consequences of bloodshed (Act III, Scene 1).
Laertes: Laertes views vengeance as a sacred duty, fueled by primal emotions and societal expectations. He justifies his actions through the concept of honor and filial piety, presenting his rage as righteous indignation (Act IV, Scene 7).

The Methods and Consequences:

Fortinbras: Although prepared for violence, Fortinbras emerges as a leader who seeks peaceful resolution. He accepts Hamlet's offer for a duel instead of pursuing full-scale war, showcasing pragmatism and restraint (Act V, Scene 2).
Hamlet: Driven by contemplation and doubt, Hamlet's methods are indirect and often self-destructive. His feigned madness and constant delays ultimately contribute to the tragic escalation of events, culminating in the deaths of Polonius, Ophelia, Gertrude, Claudius, and himself (Act V, Scene 2).
Laertes: His impulsive pursuit of vengeance through Claudius's deceit leads to his own demise in the poisoned duel. His actions directly contribute to the play's tragic climax, highlighting the destructive nature of unchecked anger and blind trust (Act V, Scene 2).

Similarities and Differences:

All three characters are bound by filial duty and the pain of loss. However, their paths diverge due to individual temperaments, reasoning, and external influences. Fortinbras represents calculated pragmatism, Hamlet embodies agonizing introspection, and Laertes personifies impulsive wrath. The consequences of their actions reflect these differences, demonstrating that the path of vengeance is fraught with complexities and rarely leads to the desired satisfaction.

In conclusion, examining the contrasting journeys of Fortinbras, Hamlet, and Laertes reveals the multifaceted nature of revenge in Hamlet. By delving into their motivations, plans, justifications, and methods, we gain a deeper understanding of the interplay between duty, passion, and morality that drives their actions. Their quests illuminate the dangers of unchecked emotions, the burden of delayed choices, and the potential for redemption amidst tragic consequences.

Direct References:

Act I, Scene 1: Fortinbras's motivation and strategic approach are established in his dialogue with the Norwegian ambassadors.
Act III, Scene 1: Hamlet's internal struggle and contemplation over revenge are evident in his famous "To be or not to be" soliloquy.
Act IV, Scene 5: Laertes's impulsiveness and thirst for vengeance are displayed in his outburst directed at King Claudius.

Sample Answer

Driven by the burning fire of filial duty, Fortinbras Jr., Hamlet, and Laertes in Shakespeare's Hamlet, each embark on a perilous journey of vengeance. However, while their quests share the common thread of loss and retribution, their motivations, plans, and justifying rationales diverge dramatically, revealing complexities of character and highlighting the multifaceted nature of revenge.

The Motives:

Fortinbras: Fuelled by a historical claim, Fortinbras seeks to reclaim land stolen from his father by King Hamlet (Act I, Scene 1). His drive is rooted in pride and restoration of family honor, propelled by a clear objective and pragmatic strategy.