Foil Characters in Shakespeare's Hamlet: Fortinbras and Hamlet

William Shakespeare's "Hamlet" is a timeless masterpiece filled with complex characters and intricate themes. Among its many layers, one of the most notable literary devices used by Shakespeare is the creation of foil characters. Foils are characters whose traits and qualities contrast with those of the protagonist, serving to highlight and emphasize the distinctive features of the main character. In "Hamlet," Fortinbras, a seemingly minor character, emerges as a significant foil to the titular character, Hamlet. Fortinbras possesses qualities and characteristics that both bring out the worst and the best in Hamlet throughout the play.

Fortinbras as a Foil to Hamlet

Fortinbras, Prince of Norway, is introduced as a foil character to Hamlet. While Fortinbras plays a relatively minor role in the overall plot, his presence serves as a catalyst for Hamlet's character development. Fortinbras embodies qualities that contrast sharply with Hamlet's disposition, shedding light on Hamlet's strengths and weaknesses.

In Act IV, Scene IV, Hamlet delivers a soliloquy that provides keen insight into his thoughts and emotions.

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This soliloquy underscores Hamlet's contemplative nature, a trait that often leads him to overanalyze situations and delay taking decisive actions. Hamlet acknowledges that he has been thinking too meticulously about the act of avenging his father's murder, specifically targeting King Claudius. In contrast, Fortinbras is portrayed as a man of action, driven by ambition and a sense of purpose. His unwavering determination to reclaim the lands lost by his father serves as a stark contrast to Hamlet's hesitancy.

Fortinbras's resolve is exemplified through his actions.

Upon receiving a letter from Fortinbras Sr., King Fortinbras, Young Fortinbras is resolute in his commitment to honor his father's legacy. He assembles an army of 20,000 men independently, showcasing his leadership and determination. King Fortinbras's death serves as a catalyst for Young Fortinbras, propelling him to take bold and immediate action to reclaim the territory lost by his father.

Hamlet's Procrastination and Self-Reflection

Hamlet, in contrast, grapples with self-doubt and procrastination. While he vehemently expresses his hatred for Claudius and vows revenge for King Hamlet's murder, he struggles to translate his convictions into action. This internal conflict within Hamlet is most evident in Act III, Scene III, where he has a golden opportunity to exact revenge upon Claudius. Alone with Claudius and armed with the knowledge of his guilt, Hamlet hesitates and overthinks the situation. He rationalizes his inaction with excuses, failing to seize the moment for retribution.

Hamlet's tragic flaw of procrastination is a central theme in the play, contributing to his ultimate downfall. His propensity for overthinking and self-reflection, while intellectually stimulating, impedes his ability to act decisively. In contrast, Fortinbras's straightforwardness and unwavering determination serve as a stark reminder of Hamlet's hesitation and internal turmoil.

Fortinbras as an Inspirational Figure

Despite the stark differences between Fortinbras and Hamlet, Fortinbras's qualities serve as an inspiration to the Danish prince. Hamlet holds Fortinbras in high regard and respects him deeply. Fortinbras's proactive and resolute nature challenges Hamlet to rise to his full potential. Shakespeare masterfully illustrates the foil between these two characters, highlighting how their differing attributes impact the narrative and character development within the play.

Conclusion

In "Hamlet," William Shakespeare employs the literary device of foil characters to illuminate the complexities of his protagonist's personality. Fortinbras, though a minor character, emerges as a significant foil to Hamlet. Fortinbras's unwavering determination, action-oriented approach, and resolute nature stand in stark contrast to Hamlet's contemplative and procrastinating tendencies. Through this foil relationship, Shakespeare not only deepens the characterization of Hamlet but also underscores the multifaceted themes of ambition, revenge, and self-reflection within the play.

As we delve into the world of "Hamlet," we witness the intricate interplay of characters and their contrasting qualities, ultimately enriching our understanding of Shakespeare's timeless masterpiece.