Final answer:
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are compelled to reveal to Hamlet that they have been sent by Claudius and Gertrude to spy on him and uncover the reason for his strange behavior. Their duplicity and betrayal underscore the themes of deception and the search for truth in Shakespeare's Hamlet.
Step-by-step explanation:
In William Shakespeare's play Hamlet, the characters Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are compelled to reveal their purpose for coming to Elsinore to Hamlet. They have been sent for by King Claudius and Queen Gertrude to find out the cause of Hamlet's apparent madness and to spy on him. The play, renowned for its exploration of complex themes like betrayal, revenge, and the struggle with internal emotion, showcases the artistry of Shakespeare in portraying human psychology. Shakespeare uses the characters to bring out themes of deceit and the search for truth. For instance, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern's betrayal of Hamlet's trust by hiding the true reason behind their visit emphasizes the duplicity surrounding Hamlet and contributes to his growing sense of isolation and disillusionment.
The fascination with ghosts and spirits, which both Horatio and Hamlet discuss, reflects the Elizabethan era's concerns and superstitions while also serving a symbolic purpose. The ghost of Hamlet's father propels the plot forward and instigates Hamlet's quest for revenge. The ghost is a controversial figure within the play, with interpretations varying from a legitimate supernatural presence to a figment of Hamlet's distraught mind, representing the hidden truths of Denmark's royal court and the corruption underlying it.
Similarly, Polonius's dismissal of the supernatural and his insistence on using reason and logic exemplify the clash between the old and the new ways of thinking that was prevalent during the Renaissance. In Shakespeare's works, dramatic tension often arises from the interplay between characters who embody different values or worldviews, as is evident in the interaction between Polonius and the other characters.