The Use Of “Foil” Characters In Shakespeare’s Hamlet

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actions of this character reflect
poorly upon the character of Hamlet. For example although we do not see
Fortinbras’s initial reaction to his fathers death, we know that from the
outset of the play he has already set out to avenge his fathers death.

“...Now, sir, young Fortinbras,
Hath in the skirts of Norway, here and there,
Shark’d up a list of lawless resolutes,”

This quote tells us that in this short period of time Fortinbras has formed
an army of outlaws to launch an attack on Denmark “…to recover of us, by
strong of hand……those foresaid lands so by his father lost”. In this same
period of time, despite his suspicions, Hamlet has achieved nothing as he
believes he needs absolute truth before he can act. He receives this from
the ghost but even then his only attempt at revenge has been to put on an “
antic disposition”. If these two courses of action were to be compared we
can plainly see that Fortinbras has made the better move towards
accomplishing his goal ...

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Hamlet goes on to speak of the 20,000 men who will fight for
Fortinbras and risk their lives over a piece of land too small to hold
their graves. Upon saying this Hamlet is disgusted with himself and his
inability to avenge his fathers death and wonders how he has “let all
sleep”. This shows the effectiveness of a foil as it is Fortinbras that
forces Hamlet into this confession and in this confession we learn more
about the character.

There is also the positioning of Fortinbras’s first appearance
which is conveniently placed whilst Hamlet is experiencing one of his lows
further emphasising his lack of determination.

Similarly Laertes puts Hamlet to shame with his impulsive ...

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