Deceit
Deceit takes many forms in Hamlet. Claudius deceived everyone by making them believe that King Hamlet had been bitten by a venomous snake. In reality, Claudius had put poison into King Hamlet's ear while he was taking a nap in the garden. Furthermore, Hamlet deceived everyone into thinking that he was insane. Hamlet did such a convincing act that his own mind believed him and he became truly mad. Polonius deceived Ophelia into thinking that he truly loved her. Polonius did love Ophelia, but he loved his position and reputation more. Another character who deceived the others was Fortinbras. Fortinbras wanted safe passage through Denmark in order to attack Poland, in exchange for a promise that Denmark would not be harmed. Fortinbras agreed but, surprise, he attacked Denmark on his way back to Norway. Deception was rampant throughout the play even though the deceptions caused more harm than good.