The Wrath of Deceit in Hamlet Essays -- GCSE English Literature Course

The Wrath of Deceit in Hamlet There are many instances in life, where individuals are encouraged to deceive or be dishonest with each other. In a competitive world, people may turn to dishonest means to be successful, especially when the stakes are high. In the world of the Danish court, Hamlet is often a victim of deceit and dishonesty. In turn, this dishonest lifestyle leads Hamlet directly to his ultimate demise. At the beginning of the play, the first act of deception is Old Hamlet's description of his brother's treachery. Secondly, Claudius the master of deception seduces Gertrude; by becoming her husband, he cleverly becomes king. Lastly, it is proven that Hamlet himself is not dishonest or deceitful. Claudius admits this to Laertes as they prepare for the sword fight scheme. Hamlet only uses deceit when he is playing the game. The outcome of the play proves that being deceitful and dishonest with people can have tragic results. The first act of deceitfulness in the game, is the discovery of Claudius' brutal murder of his brother, Old Hamlet. We see this, when Old Hamlet's ghost comes back from the afterlife. Hamlet has a suspicious feeling about the ghost's visitation, "My father's spirit in arms? All is not well. I doubt some foul play, foul deeds will rise." (I, ii, 255-259). We later find out, the spirit of Hamlet’s father has come back to explain the circumstances surrounding his tragic death, " 'tis given out that, sleeping in my orchard, a serpent stung me. So the whole ear of Denmark is by a forged process of my death rankly abused." (1, v, 35-38). Old Hamlet reveals to Hamlet the truth that resulted in his death, "The serpent that did sting thy father's life now wears his crown." (1, v, 3... ...word fight. Hamlet only uses deceit against Claudius to expose him instead of hurting him. In a sense, Claudius’ use of deceit and treachery for his own gain ruined him in the end. Instead of Claudius having a great time as king, he ended up driving Hamlet to kill him. In addition, this proves that the deceitful behavior and lifestyle at court drives Hamlet directly to his ultimate demise. The outcome of the play proves that a dishonest lifestyle can be detrimental. In the real world, people who are dishonest may excel at first but this behavior will eventually harm them in the end. People should try to have more sincere relationships with each other in order to remain successful, and not use negative means to achieve their goals. This is because deceit distorts your perceptions and it may lead you to loosing what you truly value in your life!