Act 2, Sc. 2, lines 81-85: What possible theme is brought out through the difference between the way Claudius acts in public and the way he acts in private?

Question

Hamlet

Act 2, Sc. 2, lines 81-85: What possible theme is brought out through the difference between the way Claudius acts in public and the way he acts in private?

Polonius. ...Through your dominions for this enterprise,

On such regards of safety and allowance

As therein are set down.

King. It likes well;

And at our more considered time we'll read,

Answer, and think upon this business.

Meantime, we thank you for your well-took labour.

Go to your rest; at night we'll feats together.

Most welcome home.

Asked by Briana S #599863 on 1/19/2017 8:23 PM

Last updated by Aslan on 1/19/2017 8:41 PM

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Answered by Aslan on 1/19/2017 8:41 PM

Claudius is two faced. He acts like a kindly king mourning over his dead brother when, in reality, he is a snake who usurp his brother’s thrown. Consider act 3 sc 1 when Claudius admits how two faced he is.

How smart a lash that speech doth give my conscience! The harlot`s cheek,beautied with plastering art,Is not more ugly to the thing that helps it.Than is my deed to my most painted word.O heavy burden!

Like a prostitute that hides behind makeup, Claudius hides behind his act in public.

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