Claudius and Hamlet the Broken Essay

The renewal of the drinking custom may expose a positive side of Claudius' reign. This fits Knight's observation that Claudius is "a good and gentle king" (Jump, 125). Claudius is a skilled diplomat who seems to be well liked by his people. His diplomatic skills can be seen in his good relationship with the king of England. They are on such close terms that the British king is willing to host Hamlet for a recovery period. Claudius also demonstrates his skills through his dealings with Cornelius and Voltimand. He wisely advises them to go to Norway to negotiate peace with Fortinbras. This is in sharp contrast to Old Hamlet who plunged Denamrk into war with Norway. The people are also rather fond of Norway. Their fondness of Claudius is indicated through the actions of Rosencratz and Guildenstern. Claudius employs them to find the cause of Hamlet's "antic disposition." This shows how Claudius is truly concerned with his step-son's well being. Rosencratz and Guildenstern take an immediate...