Why Laertes yearns for Hamlet’s demise- Unraveling the Motivations Behind the Deadly Desire
Why does Laertes want to kill Hamlet? This question has intrigued readers and scholars alike since the play’s first performance. Laertes, a character in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” is driven by a combination of personal grievances, family loyalty, and the influence of external forces. This article delves into the various reasons behind Laertes’ motive to eliminate Hamlet.
Firstly, Laertes’ desire to kill Hamlet stems from his personal grievances. After his father, Polonius, is murdered by Hamlet, Laertes is filled with a deep sense of betrayal and loss. He believes that Hamlet is responsible for his father’s death, as Hamlet had earlier confessed to killing Polonius during a fit of madness. This personal vendetta fuels Laertes’ determination to seek revenge against Hamlet.
Secondly, Laertes’ loyalty to his family plays a significant role in his motive to kill Hamlet. As a son, Laertes feels a strong sense of duty to avenge his father’s death. He believes that by killing Hamlet, he is honoring his family’s honor and restoring their reputation. This familial loyalty overrides his personal feelings towards Hamlet, making him more resolute in his quest for revenge.
Moreover, external forces contribute to Laertes’ desire to kill Hamlet. Hamlet’s relationship with Ophelia, Laertes’ sister, adds another layer of complexity to the situation. When Laertes learns that Hamlet has mistreated Ophelia, he becomes even more determined to avenge his sister’s honor. The combination of his personal grievances, family loyalty, and the influence of external factors makes Laertes’ motive to kill Hamlet a multifaceted one.
In conclusion, Laertes’ motive to kill Hamlet is a result of personal grievances, family loyalty, and external influences. His deep-seated desire for revenge, driven by his father’s death and the mistreatment of his sister, pushes him to seek justice against Hamlet. Understanding these reasons helps us appreciate the depth and complexity of Laertes’ character in Shakespeare’s timeless play.
