Claudius and Hamlet, according to the plot lead us to believe nonsensically that they are poles apart. The nature of the play fools us to believe, that the relationship is in turmoil therefore they must be different in character and in nature. My personal belief this cannot be true has lead me to believe different things to what is skin deep. Claudius clearly is not this and Hamlet is definitely not that. One must think of the way in which their motives influence the other, their behaviour to their victims, the past and other characters within the play.

Claudius' mind is eager in coincidence with Hamlet's. Claudius murdered his own brother, the fact alone sparks a fury and sadistic interest that is never satisfied. In short, we never find out the trail of murder he followed, as that of Hamlet, to achieve his aim. Doubtlessly, due to the guilt he suffers after King Hamlet's death, he thoughtfully planned the murder. One must consider the only way he was found out was by a supposed image of the late King, this fact alone encourages us to believe him wise and intelligent. Hamlet in all obviousness, is a thoughtful and careful philos

Hamlet's fast cold-bloodedness does not reek of Claudius' subtleties. It is obvious to the audience the intentions of Hamlet after the visitation of the Ghost. He must establish succinctly the one with blood on his sword and kill the perpetrator. In Hamlet's mind it would be in 'perfect conscience' to kill Claudius and damnable to let him live. Claudius is highly efficient in dealing with public persona, where Hamlet fails, however holds such high public esteem, Claudius names him next in line. Claudius wishes to be omniscient sending or acting with spies. He is clever in attaining as much reconnaissance as possible before launching his plan. He is clearly disappointed when receiving the second of Hamlet's letters whilst conversing with Laertes. The letter arrived just as he was going to explain how he disposed of Hamlet. Claudius in tune with other decisions, in clarity and speed, decides upon a fixed fencing match with the fail-safe device of a poisoned cup. There are no perfect men though, only perfect intentions. Claudius does not agree with the latter. The only reason I state Hamlet is not as subtle in his acts, is the simple fact that he does not act. He is a man of intellect and thought, who was soon to return to study in Germany. He contrasts entirely with the martial Fortinbras. However, it is Claudius' haste and Hamlet's sloth that became their misfortune. Claudius marries only two months after King Hamlet's death leading to suspect and Hamlet leaves it too late, to prove, he dies.

In all honesty, it is an impossible task to decide whether Claudius and Hamlet hold more similarities or differences, as my opinions and others will be argued away. However there are a few notable differences. Hamlet has far more time and interest in his friends, the way he reacts to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern shows us his respect for others, notably how visibly moved he was by the First Player. C

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Approximate Word count = 1283
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)