In the drama Hamlet Manipulation is key in hamlet and often gets people what they want… Discuss the validity of this statement.

Answer 1

The statement that manipulation is key in Hamlet and often gets people what they want is valid to a certain extent. Throughout the play, characters employ various tactics of manipulation to achieve their desired outcomes. However, the effectiveness of manipulation differs among characters and does not always lead to success.

One of the primary manipulators in the play is Claudius, the antagonist. He successfully manipulates the court and gains the crown by scheming and ultimately killing his brother, King Hamlet. Claudius skillfully uses deception to maintain his power and manipulate those around him. For instance, he convinces Gertrude to marry him shortly after King Hamlet's death, and he effectively covers up his crime by manipulating the public perception.

Another notable manipulator is Polonius, the trusted counselor of the court. He uses manipulation to control his daughter, Ophelia, and interfere in her relationship with Hamlet. Polonius strategically arranges for Ophelia to meet Hamlet while he and Claudius hide, believing that their encounter will reveal Hamlet's madness. While Polonius does achieve his immediate goal of gathering evidence against Hamlet, his manipulation also leads to Ophelia's tragic demise.

Hamlet himself becomes a master manipulator during the course of the play. In order to uncover the truth about his father's death and seek revenge, Hamlet employs various manipulative tactics, such as feigning madness and using his witty wordplay to confuse others. His manipulation of the players, for example, leads to the reenactment of his father's murder, which serves as a pivotal moment in the play.

However, while manipulation plays a significant role in Hamlet, it does not always guarantee success. Claudius, despite his initial success in manipulating others, ultimately faces the consequences of his actions. His manipulation results in a series of tragic events, including the deaths of Polonius, Laertes, Gertrude, and eventually himself. Thus, while manipulation may help achieve short-term objectives, it can lead to long-term negative consequences.

Moreover, the play also highlights the limitations and risks associated with manipulative tactics. Hamlet's manipulation of Ophelia, for instance, leads to her mental deterioration and eventual suicide. This serves as a reminder that manipulating others can have severe and irreversible consequences, not only for the manipulated but also for the manipulator.

In conclusion, the statement that manipulation is key in Hamlet and often gets people what they want is valid to a certain extent. Manipulative tactics are employed by several characters and often play a significant role in the progression of the play. However, the ultimate success of these manipulations varies, and the negative consequences of manipulation are also evident. Hamlet serves as a reminder that manipulation may achieve short-term gains, but it can lead to tragic outcomes and moral dilemmas in the larger scheme of things.