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Why Is Claudius Responsible For Hamlet's Downfall

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Shakespeare’s tragic play “Hamlet” is indeed a reflection of the author’s times as it reveals the Machiavellian world that he lived in during that period. It was a time of deception, deviousness, and cunning. As represented in Hamlet by the character Claudius, some people would go to great lengths conjuring schemes and plans that helped advance their lives. They would do any and everything to ensure that nothing got in their way. In this instance, Claudius’ need for power ultimately contributed to Hamlet’s tragic downfall. Claudius wanted to take control of the throne and would be sure to get it no matter what. He had no regards for anyone else or even his own personal honor. This was proven when he murdered his own brother by pouring poison in his ear. Knowing that Prince Hamlet would be next for the throne, Claudius married Queen Gertrude as a way to immediately implement his plan of taking over the throne. …show more content…

He tries to convince everyone that he is marrying the queen for the right reasons, but he has a hidden agenda. Claudius is a corrupt politician whose sole purpose was maintaining his own

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