Think about: There is an inter-connected tension between Hamlet and Claudius throughout the length of the play. They circle each other in alternating scenes, each in turn checking on their spies. There is an odd kind of balance between them, each monitoring the other's actions. In the end, both are prepared to kill for what they want; for Hamlet the dilemma is how to do this without completing the circle, committing the same deed as Claudius and becoming the equivalent of the very man he despises. For Claudius it is a waiting game: he must assess how much Hamlet knows and what action to take. If he must kill again to cover his tracks, there is much danger in a double-murder - it could jeopardise all he has achieved and risk discovery. Better to use political power and persuade someone else to do it - in England. |
