Question

Read the excerpts from Shakespeare’s Hamlet, excerpts from Act I, Scene I, and Act IV, Scene V. Which statement best describes Laertes's development between Act I and Act IV?

Options:

A) He becomes more interested in seeking political power.
B) He becomes more dedicated to intellectual pursuits.
C) He becomes less concerned with his family's name.
D) He becomes less concerned with correct behavior.

Answer 1

Laertes's character in Shakespeare's Hamlet develops from a careful and moral figure to one driven by vengeance, less concerned with proper behavior by Act IV.

Step-by-step explanation:

The development of Laertes's character between Act I and Act IV in Shakespeare's Hamlet is crucial to the narrative. In Act I, Laertes is presented as a protective brother to Ophelia and a dutiful son, advising her to be wary of Hamlet's romantic advances and exhibiting proper behavior before departing for France. However, by Act IV, after learning of his father's death and Ophelia's descent into madness, Laertes demonstrates a shift in character. His transformation is most accurately captured by option D) He becomes less concerned with correct behavior. Consumed by grief and a desire for revenge, Laertes's previous concerns about morality and behavior take a back seat as his actions are driven by a strong urge to avenge Polonius's murder and restore his family's honor.