Claudius Good king or bad man?
Just the facts ma’am. Brother died suddenly Married brother’s widow immediately Throws lavish parties Ignores the rotting of Denmark
Good King? Marrying his brother’s widow. Also, he is likely the legitimate heir to the throne Due to the Kalmar Union in 1397 Hamlet takes place long before 1397
Bad Man? Assuming he didn’t kill Old Hamlet By modern standards, he’s awful By their standards, aside from the state of his kingdom and his personal lust and debauchery He’s not that bad For now.
Conclusions? Safer to say: Bad king Good man Why?
Why? Ignores his duties Fortinbras is obviously going to attack Fulfills what society expects of him
Thoughts and Comments? Discuss!