Father Figures In Hamlet

738 Words2 Pages

Children’s Reactions to Powerful Father Figures

In Act 1 of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, power dynamics play a prominent role between the characters introduced. The root of power struggles between characters is one’s belief in their possession of the truth. Truth and power are synonymous with one another as the ability to manipulate the truth is linked to the influence one bears. “What would he not throw overboard in order to stay ‘on top’” (Nietzsche). Powerful father figures attempt to control their children through careful manipulation of “the truth” which makes their children (Hamlet and Ophelia) vulnerable to their influence.
Polonius attempts to convince and change his daughter, Ophelia’s mindset through sexuality and feelings towards Hamlet. …show more content…

After Hamlet’s father passed, Claudius took the opportunity to take over the throne and marry Hamlet’s mother. Through this union, Claudius increased his power and social status. Even though Claudius tried to be on Hamlet’s good side as a ‘father’, Hamlet still classified him as “A little more kin, and less than kind” (1.2.65). The phrase “more kin” stands out significantly because the word “kin” means to cousin. By stating “more kin”, Hamlet implies he still classifies Claudius as an uncle. Hamlet also indirectly jabs at Claudius, stating an opinion on what Hamlet thinks of him. This jab is shown through completely ignoring Claudius and only responding to his mother: “I shall in all my best obey you, madam” (1.2.120). This raises the question whether the irony of Hamlet’s jabs are lost on Claudius. Hamlet’s connection with his biological father exhibited stark contrasts to his relationship with Claudius. He not only continued seeing his father as a role model but could not move past that fact that he was no longer able to rely on his counsel. When given the chance to kill Claudius for his father, it not only shows that Hamlet, as well as his father, are seeking revenge at Claudius but also illustrates how he looks up to his father: “May sweep to my revenge” (1.5.31). The term “revenge” typically adds intensity and depth in a phrase. By using “revenge” it brings up the assumption that Hamlet wants to free his father’s soul but also wants to get back at Claudius even more so than before. Factors such as Hamlet’s power, political and emotional status are what influence his reactions to Claudius and his loyalty to his biological

Open Document