Desires Reached by Deception: King Claudius and Hamlet's Differing Personas

In William Shakepear’s Hamlet, King Claudius and Hamlet’s use of language and speech patterns hinder their true emotions. The two men, who are both undergoing a drastic change in their lives, explain their frustration and even ‘hidden-agendas’ through their speech. Hamlet’s sudden loss of his father, and Claudius’ greatest desire of becoming King both allow the two main characters to explore their emotions through pure bursts of emotion, and even deceptive and fake speeches. Shakespeare purposely illustrates the two men as contrasts and, even more so, as foils.  Hamlet and King Claudius’ differences in speech patterns serve to prove to the reader each character’s beliefs, emotions, and motives. Hamlet’s humorous and yet serious character is contrasted with Claudius’ condescending and deceptive persona. Through Claudius and Hamlet’s differing speech patters, the reader witnesses the conflicting emotions between Hamlet’s mental instability as a result of his father’s sudden death, and Claudius’ indifferent and selfish attitude in order to finally be the powerful King of Denmark.