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Hamlet has been viewed as a "power struggle" for political gain. Discuss this view of the play giving special consideration to the question of kingship and the suitability of Claudius and Hamlet as leaders of the Danish State.
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Hamlet has been viewed as a "power struggle" for political gain. Discuss this view of the play giving special consideration to the question of kingship and the suitability of Claudius and Hamlet as leaders of the Danish State The theme of kingship and ruling in Hamlet is complicated, and it might be valid to argue that Shakespeare to all intents and purposes drops them in favour of the concentration on Hamlet's psyche. It is further complicated by Denmark's system of having the new king approved by Council (something that goes way back into the midst of Viking time). Shakespeare is aware of this - it is why Claudius is confirmed as King rather than Hamlet as the direct successor, with a regent if under age. However, Shakespeare seems to have otherwise seen Hamlet as the direct heir - in other words, treated him after this as if he was to...
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