Hamlet: the Nature of Men

In the Shakespearean play Hamlet, Hamlet, the tragic hero is a very well developed character. Shakespeare elucidates his strengths and weaknesses by contrasting them with those of Fortinbras, Laertes and Horatio. Whereas Fortinbras is determined, Hamlet is indecisive; whereas Laertes is excused for gambling, drinking and whoring, Hamlet condemns any vice; whereas Horatio exhibits balanced behavior, Hamlet is torn between passion and reason. Through these contrasts Hamlet is able to grow and make wiser decisions, using these other men as examples of how, and how not, to act.
Fortinbras is the prince of Norway. His father was killed in a battle with Hamlet Sr., which resulted in a loss of lands. Fortinbras is determined to regain his fathers lands.
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