In William Shakespeare’s play Hamlet, there are indeed three main revenge plots that drive the narrative. These revenge plots revolve around the characters of Hamlet, Fortinbras, and Laertes, all seeking vengeance for the deaths of their fathers. Each character’s motivation and approach to revenge differ, adding complexity to the overall theme of vengeance in the play.
1. Hamlet’s Revenge:
The most prominent and central revenge plot in the play is that of Hamlet himself. After the ghost of his father appears to him, revealing that he was murdered by his own brother Claudius, Hamlet becomes consumed by the desire for revenge. This sets off a series of events as Hamlet feigns madness, becomes increasingly obsessed with uncovering the truth, and ultimately seeks to avenge his father’s death.
Hamlet’s revenge plot is characterized by his internal struggle and indecisiveness. He constantly questions his own ability to carry out the act of revenge, leading to his famous soliloquies and philosophical ponderings. Hamlet’s approach to revenge is complex, as he seeks not only to kill Claudius but also to expose his guilt and ensure justice is served.
2. Fortinbras’ Revenge:
Fortinbras, the prince of Norway, also seeks revenge in the play. However, his revenge plot is different from Hamlet’s in that it is driven by a desire to reclaim his father’s land and regain the honor lost in a previous battle with Denmark. Fortinbras’ father was killed by Hamlet’s father, and he sees an opportunity to avenge his death by invading Denmark.
Fortinbras’ revenge plot is characterized by his determination and military prowess. He gathers an army and marches towards Denmark, prepared to seize the throne and avenge his father’s death. Unlike Hamlet, Fortinbras does not struggle with internal conflicts or doubts, making his revenge plot more straightforward and decisive.
3. Laertes’ Revenge:
Laertes, the son of Polonius, also seeks revenge after his father is killed by Hamlet. Laertes’ revenge plot is driven by his intense grief and desire for vengeance. He is easily manipulated by Claudius, who uses him as a pawn in his own scheme to kill Hamlet.
Laertes’ revenge plot is characterized by his impulsiveness and willingness to take immediate action. He agrees to a duel with Hamlet, where he plans to kill him using a poisoned rapier. Unlike Hamlet and Fortinbras, Laertes does not spend much time contemplating his revenge or questioning its morality. He acts swiftly and decisively, driven purely by his emotions.
The three revenge plots in Hamlet provide different perspectives on the theme of vengeance. Hamlet’s revenge plot is marked by his internal struggle and philosophical musings, Fortinbras’ revenge plot is characterized by his determination and military prowess, and Laertes’ revenge plot is driven by his impulsiveness and grief. These three intertwined revenge plots add depth and complexity to Shakespeare’s exploration of the consequences and moral dilemmas surrounding the act of seeking revenge.