No, Hamlet did not want to be king in Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet.” Hamlet was the Prince of Denmark, and the rightful heir to the throne, but he was not interested in becoming king. Instead, Hamlet was preoccupied with seeking revenge for his father’s murder, which was committed by Hamlet’s uncle Claudius, who then married Hamlet’s mother Gertrude and became the new king. Hamlet’s primary focus throughout the play was on uncovering the truth about his father’s death and exacting justice, rather than on claiming the throne for himself.
As evidenced by his interactions with Polonius, Hamlet seemed indifferent to the trappings of power and authority. When Polonius suggests that Hamlet is “out of thy star” in pursuing the love of Ophelia, Hamlet does not protest or assert his right as prince. Instead, he simply remarks, “I am but mad north-north-west: when the wind is southerly I know a hawk from a handsaw” (Act 2, Scene 2). Later, when the king and queen invite Hamlet to “sit by me,” he declines, saying “No, good mother, here’s metal more attractive” (Act 3, Scene 3). These responses indicate that Hamlet was not motivated by a desire for the crown, but rather was consumed by his internal turmoil and quest for vengeance.
Relevant Passages:
Act iii, Scene i
Polonius tells the king and queen that he advised his daughter, Ophelia, to reject Hamlet’s love. He suggests that they spy on Hamlet’s next encounter with Ophelia to see if his behavior is due to love or madness. Hamlet enters, reading, and the others plan to observe his behavior.
Act v, Scene ii
In this passage, Hamlet and Horatio discuss Hamlet’s discovery of a secret commission that reveals a plot against him. Hamlet explains how he was able to uncover and thwart the plot.
Act iii, Scene iii
In this passage, Hamlet speaks with his mother and Ophelia, discussing his mental state and mocking Polonius. The King and Queen also discuss Hamlet’s behavior and the upcoming play.
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