The Depiction of Laertes as a Foil Character to Hamlet

The Depiction of Laertes as a foil character to Hamlet

In the Shakespearean tragedy Hamlet, the author introduces a character relatively early who, little to the reader’s knowledge, is vital to the climax of the story. Laertes is unmistakably one of the larger foils to Hamlet in the outcome of the play. To fully comprehend the image of a foil in the play, one must understand the definition. The transitive verb tense of foil is to prevent from attaining success. William Shakespeare depicts Laertes to give the reader a greater understanding of the protagonist, Hamlet.

Like Hamlet, Laertes reacts very impulsively when he is angry. Hamlet and Laertes both have great respect for their fathers. When Laertes discovers his father’s murderous death, he jumps to conclusion and places the blame on Claudius. Laertes acts as any son would and aims to avenge Polonius. "To hell, allegiance! vows, to the blackest devil! Conscience and grace, to the profoundest pit! I dare damnation: to this point I stand, that both worlds I give to negligence, let come what comes; only I'll be revenged most thoroughly for my father" (IIII, iiiii, 128-134). Shortly after speaking with Claudius, Laertes is informed that his father was murdered by Hamlet. The anger in both characters drives them to act without thinking of their consequences. Hamlet and Laertes are also similar in that Claudius, Hamlet’s step-father, and Polonius both send men to spy on them. The two also have a deep care and concern for Ophelia.

In contrast, Hamlet and Laertes both love and care for Ophelia, but they love and care for her in different ways. Laertes advises Ophelia on her relationship with Hamlet before leaving for France. Laertes does not trust Hamlet’s intentions with Ophelia and he makes her aware of it. Ophelia has strong feelings toward Hamlet and is deeply saddened when he rejects her. Hamlet would have