Both Claudius and Papa are strong leading male characters who have many flaws. Although Papa represents an abusive father whose religion dictates his life, he shows himself to be dictated by religion in hopes of providing the best for his family while Claudius’ narcissistic mannerisms provide him a path to the top with no concern for the people around him. Ultimately representing Papa to be a better man.
Claudius and Papa are two men who primarily strive for power in their community. Claudius’ route to power is brutal and vicious which provides the shortest route. Unlike Papa, Claudius is a goal driven character whose first priority is himself and does not choose his actions to promote the people around him. Hamlet in the beginning of the play characterizes Claudius as a “serpent that did sting my father’s life / [and] Now wears his crown.” (I.IV, 39-40).
Hamlet describes Claudius as a manipulative and tricky guy who will not let anything get in his way to power.
…show more content…
Papa although drastically different at home, has a gracious public character who represents pride within the community. As Kambili narrates the scene she says that “The men and women all rose when Papa walked in, and chants of “Omelora!” filled the air.” (91). As Papa enters a room people exclaim chants of gratefulness saying “Omelora” meaning literally “The One Who Does for the Community.” As Papa and the family drives into their Christmas vacation home their car is being chased by “three little boys rush[ing] into the compound to greet Papa” as Papa greets them he gives them “each ten naira notes [and tells them to] Greet [their] parents, [and] make sure you show them this money” (55). Papa’s generosity continues throughout the novel with many instances showing that although these actions give him great power he does it with the best of