In the book Hamlet, Fortinbras is the Prince of Norway. Hamlet’s father killed Fortinbras’ father therefore Fortinbras wants to attack Denmark; he began taking action for revenge at the beginning of the play. Fortinbras is a strong-willed and capable leader who wants to return Denmark back to the ownership of Norway. He is young and very ambitious willing to risk it all for the tasks he must do and for his honor. Fortinbras was going to Denmark to remove the old royal family so he could take over and rule to avenge his father’s honor. He arrives in Denmark right after everyone has died so there is no conquering to do. Hamlet tells Horatio that he wants Fortinbras to rule Denmark right before he dies.
This character is a good contrast to Hamlet. Hamlet sees how Fortinbras is not afraid to avenge his father’s death and this disgusts Hamlet because he had his chances and never took them. Fortinbras is in the same situation as Hamlet but he takes complete opposite actions, which makes Hamlet realize that he shouldn’t worry about the consequences he should seek revenge for honor.
