Laertes Foil To Hamlet

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In the play, Hamlet, by William Shakespeare, the titular character of Hamlet’s character traits and characteristics are emphasized by the other characters within the play that act as a foil to him. One of Hamlet’s most prominent foils is Laertes, the son of Polymious, whom Hamlet has killed, and the brother of Ophelia, Hamlet’s love interest throughout the story. Laertes’ position as a foil to Hamlet means that as the audience begins to understand how Laertes’ would respond to the situations he is presented with; they can reevaluate how they perceive Hamlet and the actions he chooses to take. Hamlet and Laertes both respond to their grief, with differing approaches to revenge with one favoring violence and another favoring deep planning,

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