Introduction
In his famous speech in Act I, Scene II, Prince Hamlet remarks that his father and uncle were vastly different individuals. He describes King Hamlet as a “hyperion to a satyr,” emphasizing the stark contrast between his uncle, King Claudius, and his father. Prince Hamlet provides most of his insight into the characters of these two individuals at the very beginning of the play.
Prince Hamlet’s Comparison of King Hamlet and King Claudius
The Prince often mentions King Hamlet in contrast to his uncle. He is described as a charismatic and honorable man whom his people loved. The Prince states, “Hyperion to a Satyr; so loving to my mother That he might not beteem the winds of heaven Visit her face too roughly.” This metaphor highlights King Hamlet’s attractiveness – his beauty and nobility compared to his uncle’s deformity. The fact that he was adored by his wife, Prince Hamlet’s mother, such that the winds of heaven couldn’t even touch her, shows that he was considered a perfect husband and guardian.
On the other hand, King Claudius is depicted as a deceitful and untrustworthy individual who is cunning enough to hide his true nature from the world. Prince Hamlet says that his uncle, Claudius, was “no more like my father than I to Hercules,” implying that they were complete opposites. The use of “Hercules” as the epitome of strength and righteousness shows how Prince Hamlet views his father as someone strong enough to withstand any difficulty. Claudius is depicted as a feeble and unworthy individual who doesn’t merit the throne he stole.
Conclusion
Overall, Prince Hamlet’s speeches about his father, King Hamlet, and his uncle, King Claudius, show that they were two entirely different individuals. King Hamlet was a charismatic, honorable king who loved his people and was adored by his wife. At the same time, King Claudius is portrayed as a cunning, dishonest, and unworthy man who stole the throne from his brother. This contrast is the play’s underlying conflict, making it a tragedy. Despite the differences between these two characters, both greatly impact the play’s plot and Prince Hamlet’s actions and plight.