Fortinbras: the name itself demonstrates strength and vigilance. He is the son of King Fortinbras of Norway, and throughout the Shakespearean play of Hamlet, he seeks revenge for the murder of his father by King Hamlet of Denmark. He only makes two appearances in the totality of the play, yet the contribution of his character majorly complexifies the storyline. Nevertheless, this inclusion is vital to this intricate plot. The play’s secondary conflict involving Fortinbras provides a ‘distractor’ from the main conflict, a contrast to Hamlet’s character, as well as a resolution to the play’s ending.
In avoidance of facing the concomitants of King Hamlet’s death, Claudius draws the public’s attention towards Fortinbras’ threat of conquering the
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Obviously, both are princes of well-established European kingdoms, but they also are both seeking revenge for the murder of their fathers. However, the way they deal with this problem is quite different. Fortinbras is quite sudden and rash with his threat of revenge, whereas Hamlet’s willingness to follow through with his plan involves skepticism and wit. Had Hamlet behaved like Fortinbras, rather than taking his slow course of action, the play would be a lot shorter, and key points in the story would be nonexistent. Not only that, but the Hamlet is known for his in-depth thinking. Had he behaved like Fortinbras would, this distinguishing character trait would be taken away from him. depthness in Hamlet’s thoughts that is an important character trait. Shakespeare brilliantly included this as a comparison between the two characters and their actions. It emphasizes Hamlet’s aversion to revenge his father’s death, and almost illustrates him as a coward in contrast to the courageous and strong Fortinbras.
Most importantly, the existence of Fortinbras allows for an easy and effective resolution to the ending to the play. Once everyone dies, —including the King, the Queen, and Hamlet— there is no one left to take over the Danish throne, besides Fortinbras. Hamlet even predicts the acquisition of the kingdom by Fortinbras, as he mentions it in his last few