Shakespeares Hamlet to pass ALevel Exam

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Key Characters in Hamlet

• Hamlet – The conflicted Prince of Denmark • Claudius – The usurping King of Denmark • Gertrude – Hamlet’s mother and Queen • Polonius – The meddling court adviser • Ophelia – Polonius’s daughter, entangled in Hamlet’s fate • Laertes – Ophelia’s brother, seeking revenge • Horatio – Hamlet’s loyal friend and confidant • Rosencrantz and Guildenstern – Courtiers manipulated by Claudius • The Ghost – The spirit of King Hamlet, whose appearance sets the play in motion • Fortinbras – The Prince of Norway, representing external political tension

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Fortinbras and External Political Tension

Fortinbras symbolizes the external threat and contrast to the internal decay in Denmark. While Hamlet’s indecision focuses on personal and familial conflicts, Fortinbras’ active military pursuit illustrates a structured and assertive political alternative. His ambitions remind the audience of the looming consequences of unchecked political ambitions and power struggles beyond Denmark's borders.

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