Why is Hamlet's return to Wittenberg "retrograde" to Claudius's desire? Act I, scene ii, (113-114)

-- Patrick Walker (www.criesandwhispers666@yahoo.com), November 16, 2002

Answers

At this stage Claudius has nothing against Hamlet, nor Hamlet anything tangible against him. Hamlet might not be fond of him, but they're not dire adversaries yet. Hamlet's just his brother's young son, whom his wife dotes on. It would be enough that Gertrude wants Hamlet to stay for Claudius to want it too, to make her happy. See IV.vii.11-16. Yet Claudius may also think it important that Hamlet stay and fulfil his role as courtier, learning on the ground, from Claudius himself, how to be the next King.

-- catherine england (catherine_england@hotmail.com), November 17, 2002.