Hamlet

ACT IV, Sc. 3, Lines 61-71: Analyze lines that use figurative language to explain the King's deepest thoughts about Hamlet. What previously unrevealed plan for Hamlet does Claudius reveal here, and how does it reflect on his character?

King. Away! For everything is sealed and done

That else leans on th'affair. Pray you make haste.

[Exeunt all but the King]

And England, if my love thou hold'st at aught -

As my great power thereof may give thee sense,

Since yet thy cicatrice looks raw and red

After the Danish sword, and thy free awe

Pays homage to us - thou mayst not coldly set

Our soveriegn process, which imports at full,

By letter conjuring to that effect,

The present death of Hamlet. Do it, England;

For like the hectic in my blood he rages,

And thou must cure me.

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Hamlet is really under the king's skin. He uses Hamlet as a metaphor for a disease that afflicts him. He wants to send Hamlet to England and he wants the King of England to kill Hamlet when he gets there.