Fortinbras' Claim

The events in Hamlet take place against a background of an intense political uncertainty which contributes to the emotional energy of the play. In this section, we examine the political issues of the drama, and the way this background reverberates through the action of the play.

1. Maps
     A.  Europe in Shakespeare's Time
     B.  Denmark in 1606
     C.  England's Tribute
2. Political Issues
3. Horatio Explains
     A.  A Sealed Compact Well Ratified by Law and Heraldry
     B.  The Threatened Recovery
4. The Election Lights on Fortinbras