How smart a lash that speech doth give my conscience!
The harlot's cheek, beautied with plastering art,
Is not more ugly to the thing that helps it
Than is my deed to my most painted word:
O heavy burden! (III.i.49-53)
This soliloquy by Claudius reveals he is not entirely evil by displaying his guilty conscience. Throughout the play, only one perspective is presented concerning Claudius. The Ghost and Hamlet display an obviously prejudiced view of him. But from an objective point of view, Claudius has several exceptional characteristics. His skillful use of language is unrivaled, he is intelligent, quick-witted and also a capable leader. The few flaws that he does have are displayed prominently in the play, and thus, he is viewed as a malevolent villain. Claudius has weak morals and is a selfish, power-hungry ruler. Although Claudius is not perfect, he does possess several favorable traits, but since his few flaws are highlighted, he is portrayed as a ruthless villain.
David Garrick in Hamlet, I, 4
Book signing and Hamlet Au's interview with Julian...
HamletClaudius is not only a masterful speaker, but also a clever psychologist. He uses these abilities in his first public speech. After becoming king, Claudius is in an awkward position. He has just married his brother's wife and has displaced the expected heir, Hamlet, from the throne. In the speech, he first speaks of public matters, but then briefly alludes to his marriage. He thanks the courtiers for their advice on the affair. His thanking serves two functions: he flatters them to keep their support, and he informs them that they all share responsibility for his marriage by making it a matter of state, not merely a personal choice. Next, he moves onto a threat to the state, Fortibras' plot to invade Denmark. Claudius' goal is to insure the citizens that the kingdom is in capable hands by announcing...