Revenge is a common theme in literature, and "Hamlet," a play by William Shakespeare, is no exception. The play follows the story of young Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark, as he grapples with the news of his father's murder and his mother's hasty remarriage to his uncle, the murderer. This event sparks a burning desire for revenge within him, and he becomes obsessed with the idea of bringing his uncle to justice. However, Hamlet is not the only character in the play driven by a desire for revenge. Fortinbras, the Prince of Norway, and Laertes, the son of the loyal courtier Polonius, are also motivated by the need for retribution. While their motivations for seeking revenge differ, their actions serve as a foil to those of Hamlet and ultimately …show more content…
At the beginning of the play, Fortinbras is embroiled in a conflict with Denmark over a piece of land known as the Polish-Baltic provinces. This conflict serves as a backdrop to the events of the play and is ultimately resolved peacefully. However, Fortinbras' desire for revenge is a significant motivating factor in the early stages of the play and serves as a contrast to the more complex and internalized revenge motivations of Hamlet. Unlike Hamlet, who is driven by grief, betrayal, and a sense of moral duty, Fortinbras is motivated by a more straightforward desire for territorial expansion and personal glory. He sees the Polish-Baltic provinces as rightfully belonging to Norway, and is determined to reclaim them by any means necessary. As the play progresses, Fortinbras' desire for revenge is temporarily sidetracked by the machinations of his uncle, who is scheming to take the throne of Norway for himself. However, he ultimately triumphs over this obstacle and emerges as the rightful ruler of his country. In the final act of the play, Fortinbras arrives in Denmark just as Hamlet is dying, having finally achieved his revenge against Claudius. In the aftermath of the violence and chaos that has engulfed the Danish court, …show more content…
However, the theme of revenge is not limited to these three characters and is woven throughout the play, influencing the actions and motivations of many of the other characters as well. In the context of the play, the theme of revenge serves as a powerful driving force that drives the plot forward and ultimately leads to the downfall of several characters. It is also a reflection of the broader cultural and historical context of the play, which was written during the Elizabethan era when the pursuit of personal honor and reputation was of paramount importance, and the theme of revenge was a common one in the literature and theater of the time. "Hamlet" was written during this period, and reflects the cultural and historical context of the Elizabethan