Question

Explain the term foil and how it is used in the play. Who were the foils to Hamlet in the play? Who do you think was Hamlet’s biggest foil and why? Your answer should be at least 150 words.

Answer 1

Foil means a character who has the same motif.

Both Fortinbras and Laertes had the same motif as Hamlet. E well know that every one of them has lost his father but they differ in reactions. Laertes and Fortinbras they immediately acted after they heard about the death of their fathers but Hamlet delayed this is because of his flow.

Fortinbras acted quickly to avenge his father’s death by launching a huge military conquest which was against Denmark. Fortinbras engaged in the real leadership of Norwegian armies and expanded territory in his country.

Hamlet differs from Laertes in that Hamlet is introspective and indecisive while Laertes is impulsive and rash.