Laertes and Hamlet both display impulsive reactions when
angered. Once Laertes discovers his father has been murdered Laertes
immediately assumes the slayer is Claudius. As a result of Laertes's
speculation he instinctively moves to avenge Polonius's death. "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." Act 4 Scene 5 lines 128-134
provide insight into Laertes's mind displaying his desire for revenge
at any cost. In contrast to Laertes speculation of his father's
killer, Hamlet presumes the individual spying on his conversation with
Gertrude is Claudius("Nay, I know not: is it the King?" Act 3, Scene 4
line 28). Consequently, Hamlet consumed with rage automatically
David Garrick in Hamlet, I, 4
English: Mignon Nevada as "Ophelia", glass negativ...
Elizabeth Siddal was the model for Sir John Everet...thrusts out attempting to kill Claudius, but instead strikes Polonius.
Hamlet's and Laertes's imprudent actions are incited by fury and
frustration. Sudden anger prompts both Hamlet and Laertes to act
spontaneously, giving little thought to the consequences of their
actions.
Hamlet and Laertes share a different but deep love and concern
for Ophelia. Before his departure for France Laertes provides
lengthy advice to Ophelia pertaining to her relationship with Hamlet.
Laertes voices his concern of Hamlet's true intentions towards Ophelia
and advices her to be wary of Hamlet's love. Laertes impresses upon
Ophelia, Hamlet is a prince who most likely will have an arranged
marriage. Hamlet's strong love for Ophelia withers after she rejects
his affinity. Hamlet's extensive love for Ophelia resulted in grave
suffering for Hamlet once his affection was rejected. Hamlet's
appearance decays due to the rejection of his love for Ophelia("Pale
as his shirt, his knees knocking each other" Act 2, Scene 1,