... the Elizabethan Era a period of intellectual and artistic upheaval, tentative and feisty environment and political disarray. The story introduces us to three young men whose fathers had been brutally killed (Hamlet, Laertes and Fortinbras). The men had high positions 'in the social order and a fall/death of any one would influence the entire society. But each needed to avenge their fathers' deaths ... revenge. Though it was utterly condemned society, the mention of revenge in plays was totally acceptable provided justice prevailed. Shakespeare keeps the needs of his audience in mind and...

• Word Count: 3059
• Approx Pages: 12
• Grade Level: High School

... humor and find some enjoyment from their lives. Another indication of the good-nature of the state is the drinking custom of Claudius' court. In his melancholy state, Hamlet can only see this as something which makes [them] traduc'd and tax'd of other nations (I, iii, 18). However, this custom ... is content with their lives, and they are taking time to enjoy the prosperity of Denmark. Perhaps this custom was not followed in the times of Old Hamlet because his reign was not as prosperous as Claudius' or perhaps the court is more content now that Claudius has the thrown ... demonstrates h...

• Word Count: 2834
• Approx Pages: 11
• Grade Level: High School