For Hamlet, the memory of his father is imbedded so deeply in his thoughts that he cannot but continue to mourn. However, Claudius has swept aside memories of his brother, or at least he has done so until he is reminded of his murder upon watching “The Mousetrap.” Claudius indulges in the benefits of his murder of Old Hamlet: the queen and the throne. In a rather callous attempt to cheer up his nephew, Claudius states, “’Tis unmanly grief./ It shows a will most incorrect to heaven,/A heart unfortified, a mind impatient,/ An understanding simple and unschooled” (1.2.94-97). This statement gives the reader a glimpse into Claudius’ attitude toward the past: he clearly attempts to forget what has happened, and tries to concentrate on the present and the
For Hamlet, the memory of his father is imbedded so deeply in his thoughts that he cannot but continue to mourn. However, Claudius has swept aside memories of his brother, or at least he has done so until he is reminded of his murder upon watching “The Mousetrap.” Claudius indulges in the benefits of his murder of Old Hamlet: the queen and the throne. In a rather callous attempt to cheer up his nephew, Claudius states, “’Tis unmanly grief./ It shows a will most incorrect to heaven,/A heart unfortified, a mind impatient,/ An understanding simple and unschooled” (1.2.94-97). This statement gives the reader a glimpse into Claudius’ attitude toward the past: he clearly attempts to forget what has happened, and tries to concentrate on the present and the