Research Paper on:
“Hamlet” and “Coriolanus” -- Examples of Shakespeare’s Portrayal of Self-Destruction

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evil that exists in the actions of human beings. The fact that one character is a broody and almost manic Dane while the other is an arrogant and determined Roman  soldier is not the point. The point is the connection that exists between power, misperceptions, and betrayal. Mention is also made of the title characters mothers and their role. Bibliography  lists 4 sources. BWhamcor.rtf Hamlet and Coriolanus By: C.B. Rodgers - December 2001 -- for  more information on using this paper properly! Introduction The tone used by Shakespeare in both "Hamlet" and "Coriolanus" is one of bitterness, tinged with a sense of betrayal.  He also presents his audiences with characters who are completely self-absorbed. Hamlet is the dark and brooding prince who is far too caught up with inner turmoil which, admittedly, has  been caused by his fathers murder, his mothers dishonor, his uncles treachery, and more, that he can only focus on his inner anguish. In comparison, the Roman hero Caius Marcius,  who became known as Coriolanus after his defeat of the Volscan defenders of the city of Corioli, is obsessed with himself and his own power and glory. One of them,  Hamlet, is outraged by what he sees as his mothers betrayal of both his father and himself. The other primary character, Coriolanus, is passionate about his accomplishments and triumphs  in battle and his position as a leader and a fighter. Coriolanus is certainly not stereotypical Shakespearean hero but an unattractive, extremely flawed and human (McAlindon 502). He knows that  he is better than other men while Hamlet is fearful that he may not be as honorable as his position requires. Hamlet is quite nearly is fundamentally powerless in his