Hamlet
How does Hamlet's encounter with the Norwegian troops increase his courage?
Answer should be found in Act 4.
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sabrina j #229957
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Roskolnikov
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Answered by
Aslan
Hamlet meets the Captain of the Norwegian forces on his way to his England bound ship. Here he learns that young Fortinbras is heading over to sack Poland. The Captain informs the only reason they are going to attack Poland is because it is there and the "Polack" will fight to defend it. The country, according to the Captain, is a worthless piece of land. Hamlet is impressed that Fortinbras is such a "he man" ready to risk lives simply for a fight. He wishes he wasn't such a coward over something that has really insulted him. Hamlet resolves to be a "tough man" just like his hero Fortinbras.
Answered by
Roskolnikov
Astonished by the thought that [the Norwegians'] bloody war could be fought over something so insignificant, Hamlet marvels that human beings are able to act so violently and purposefully for so little gain. By comparison, Hamlet has a great deal to gain from seeking his own bloody revenge on Claudius, and yet he still delays and fails to act toward his purpose. Disgusted with himself for having failed to gain his revenge on Claudius, Hamlet declares that from this moment on, his thoughts will be bloody.
Source(s)
http://www.sparknotes.com/shakespeare/hamlet/section11.rhtml
