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Laertes In Hamlet

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Laertes In Hamlet
Laertes is a minor character in the story and yet the revenge theme is much more prominent in him. He is represented by a porcupine because of his “prickly personality” – that is, he is bad-tempered, rash, and easily irritated. He becomes impulsive and irrational in his desire to avenge his father.

For example, Hamlet was unable to act unless he was absolutely sure of Claudius' guilt. However, upon learning of his father’s death in Act 4, Scene 5, Laertes roars at Claudius:

“O thou vile king, Give me my father!”

This line reveals a strong desire for vengeance and a sense of rashness in Laertes. He immediately accuses the king of killing his father and insults him by calling him “vile”.

“To hell, allegiance! Vows, to the blackest devil!
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