Predetermined Fate In Hamlet

In English literature, many authors implement specific surroundings, whether physical or not, in their works to not only affect their characters, but also to illuminate the overall significance of the work. As Pauline Hopkins, Contending Forces, wrote, “Our surroundings influence our lives and characters as much as fate, destiny or any supernatural agency.” Similar to destiny, which none can escape and all must eventually accept as their path of life, the surroundings used in literature entrap its characters to their predetermined fates. Hamlet, by William Shakespeare, provides evidence to this claim through the story of a young Prince Hamlet, who is forced into a life undesired because of the habitat he was born too. In response to his situation, Hamlet retaliates by separating himself from society and searches for his place in the world. By examining the …show more content…
Having stolen the throne from Hamlet, Claudius is wary about Hamlet’s intellect and wishes him to stay near home, where all his actions can be reported. Rather than showing fear, however, Claudius reasons with Hamlet by reminding him, “You are the most immediate to our throne” (1.2 113). Hamlet, tossed into a life of royalty, has no control over his path, but rather must follow the one set by his surroundings. Further evidence for the sociological perspective developed by Shakespeare can be found in Act One, Scene Three. Before Laertes takes his leave to begin his studies, he confronts his sister, Ophelia, and gives her parting advice regarding her relationship with Hamlet: “Perhaps he loves you now… but you must fear, his greatness weighed, his will is still not his own for he himself is subject to his birth.” (1.3