Hamlet

“Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.” As Hamlet progresses, Shakespeare reveals the true scope of this rottenness, which extends to almost every character in the play. The all pervasive rottenness present in Elsinore is portrayed by Shakespeare both through the actions of his characters and through the language and imagery used. Rottenness, as referred to by Horatio, refers to moral, social and political corruption. In the context of Hamlet, the word 'rotten' incorporates …

…the state of Denmark. Almost all of the characters in Hamlet and their relationships are rotten. This rottenness stems from the evil deeds of Claudius and is spread across the entire court, effecting even innocents such as Ophelia. Shakespeare presents this insidious, ever-present rottenness through actions, imagery and vocabulary throughout the entire play. It is not until the tragic final scene that Hamlet cleanses the court of its rottenness, curing Denmark of its fatal disease.