Hamlet,_Laertes,_And_Fortinbras

Hamlet, Laertes, And Fortinbras Although they share an overwhelming desire to avenge their father’s death, Hamlet, Laertes, and Fortinbras are three distinct characters, each possessing motivation unique to their personality. Mysteriously intertwined with one another, these three men cross paths as they seek revenge on their father’s assassin. In Bevington’s introduction of Hamlet, the rationale behind each man’s philosophy and tactics are discussed as well as contrasted in order to reveal an interesting perception of Hamlet’s passivity. Though he is the son of the King of Norway, Fortinbras is forced to give the crown up to his uncle when the king is killed in battle. Displeased with this situation, Fortinbras decides that if cannot have his father’s kingdom, then he will conquer one of his own. “Fortinbras of Norway, as his name implies (“strong in arms”), is one who believes in decisive action” (Bevington 529). He is determined to conquer through bloodshed and battle and has no concern for the lives and wealth that will be lost for such a vain victory. Like Hamlet, Fortinbras is overwhelmed with the desire for glory and vengeance. Although the two men share desire to avenge their father’s death as well as the loss hamlet, laertes, death, fortinbras, bevington, revenge, own, one, much, motivation, men, killed, desire, crown, both, avenge, actions, vengeance, uncle, two, thus, three, thought, think, strategy, share, seek, said, reason, rationale, polonius, passivity, passion