Another character who manipulates others is Polonius, who uses manipulation as a means of controlling his daughter, Ophelia, and obtaining information about Hamlet. However, his manipulation leads to Ophelia's madness and eventual suicide. This outcome demonstrates that manipulation can often have unintended and devastating consequences.

Furthermore, it is important to consider the character of Gertrude, who is also manipulated by various characters. Claudius manipulates Gertrude into marrying him, disregarding her relationship with Hamlet's father. However, Gertrude's manipulation does not bring her the desired results. Instead, she remains in a loveless marriage and becomes a pawn in the power struggle between Hamlet and Claudius.

1 answer

Additionally, the character of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern can also be seen as being manipulated by Claudius. Initially, they are portrayed as Hamlet's childhood friends who are asked by the king to spy on him. They naively agree, unaware of Claudius' ultimate plan to have them escort Hamlet to his death in England. This manipulation ultimately leads to their own demise, as they are betrayed by Claudius and executed in England.

Another character who falls victim to manipulation is Laertes. He is manipulated by Claudius into seeking revenge on Hamlet for his father Polonius' death. Through manipulation and manipulation, Claudius stokes Laertes' anger and desire for vengeance, leading him to conspire against Hamlet. This manipulation ultimately leads to Laertes' downfall, as he becomes consumed by his desire for revenge and is killed by his own poisoned sword.

The theme of manipulation is central in Shakespeare's play Hamlet, illustrating how those who engage in manipulation often achieve their short-term goals but ultimately suffer unintended consequences. The characters who manipulate others, such as Polonius, Gertrude, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, and Laertes, all experience devastating outcomes as a result of their actions. This serves as a cautionary tale, demonstrating the destructive nature of manipulation and the importance of recognizing and resisting its influence.