King Claudius, the villain of the tragedy, caused his own demise first of all by murdering his own brother, former king Hamlet, and secondly marrying prince Hamlets mother and his sister in law, Gertrude. ... His overly curious nature which he tried to cover by acting to be trustworthy and caring leads to his own demise. ... This above all: to thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man. ... However in reality does not trust his own son, he sends Renaldo after Laertes to follow and keep an eye on him and to see if he upholds those...

• Word Count: 1361
• Approx Pages: 5
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

If Hamlet stays close to home, Claudius may keep watch over him to ensure his own safety. ... As Hamlet becomes privy to this information, his attention focuses from avenging his father's death to saving his own life. ... As Claudius' deception of his people further glorifies him as a king, he expels Hamlet out of Elsinore for Hamlet's own safety. ... Claudius recommends, "Hamlet, this deed, for thine especial safety - Which we do tender, as we dearly grieve For that which thou hast done - must send thee hence With fiery quickness. ...

• Word Count: 1415
• Approx Pages: 6
• Grade Level: High School

It is believed that it is because of his honourable convictions that he is rewarded with a vengeance that does not end with his own demise, as well as, ascendancy to the conveniently empty throne of Denmark. ... But to his credit, Laertes does begin to doubt his own motives during the fight: "My lord, I'll hit him now and yet 'tis almost 'gainst my conscience - (V.ii.296-297). As well, as he lies dying of his poison he confesses his own treachery to Hamlet and tells him of the role of the King, thereby indicting him. ... "Exchange forgiveness with me, noble Hamlet: Mine an...

• Word Count: 2387
• Approx Pages: 10
• Grade Level: High School