Final Answer:
King Fortinbras is absent from the play "Hamlet," and as a result, there is no opportunity for the author to associate any symbol with his character. Thus, the correct answer is option c) King Fortinbras is absent from the play; no symbol associated.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Shakespeare's play "Hamlet," King Fortinbras is notably absent, and there is no explicit mention or portrayal of his character. Consequently, there is no opportunity for the playwright to attach any symbol or attribute to King Fortinbras. The absence of a symbol suggests that Fortinbras does not play a significant role in the unfolding events of the play and does not carry a thematic weight or representation.
In "Hamlet," the characters and symbols are carefully woven into the narrative to convey deeper meanings and themes. While characters like Hamlet, Claudius, and Ophelia are central to the plot and carry symbolic significance, King Fortinbras remains on the periphery, with no assigned role or representation. This absence can be seen as a deliberate choice by Shakespeare to focus the narrative on other characters and themes, allowing the audience to engage more deeply with the complexities of revenge, madness, and morality.
In conclusion, the absence of King Fortinbras from the play "Hamlet" and the lack of an associated symbol emphasize his marginal role in the storyline, steering the audience's attention towards the more pivotal characters and themes explored by Shakespeare.
Thus, the correct answer is option c) King Fortinbras is absent from the play; no symbol associated.