Shakespeare directly contrasts the pair through Claudius’ line: “[...] By letters congruing to that effect, The present death of Hamlet” (IV.iii.72-74). Just as Hamlet has plans to kill Claudius, Claudius has plans to have Hamlet killed. However, he refuses to do it himself or even have Denmark execute him. Though it’s cowardly, it’s also a complete defiance of Shakespeare’s definition of authenticity. Shakespeare utilizes Claudius’ character as a means to emphasize Hamlet’s authenticity. Where Hamlet is forthright, Claudius is sneaky and …show more content…
Hamlet kills Claudius himself, first stabbing him with the poisoned blade and then forcing him to drink out of a poisoned cup (V.ii.352-357). This action single-handedly demonstrates Hamlet’s authenticity by Shakespeare’s definition. Hamlet does not attempt to disguise the murder of Claudius and does not stop for the sake of the onlookers declaring his actions treasonous. Shakespeare displays this as authentic by his definition because it shows Hamlet acting entirely of his own volition, regardless of what others thought of