| Papers [1-16] of 49 :: [Page 1 of 4] | | Go to page : 1 2 3 4 —> | Search results on "STUDY CLAUDIUS": |
|
|
A Study of Claudius, 2005.
An analysis of Claudius' qualities as a good king and a bad man in William Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
2,056 words (approx. 8.2 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 93.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper examines how one character that can rival the complexity and depth of the character of Hamlet, is that of Claudius. It looks at how we soon discover through Hamlet's eyes that Claudius murdered his brother to get to the throne which prompts the opinion of Claudius as a bad man. It analyses whether this opinion is justified and whether Claudius can be considered a good king as has been proposed by critics in the past.
From the Paper
"However, much evidence points towards the fact that Claudius may in fact have been a 'bad man'. He can display a malicious nature and manipulate people into doing what he wants them to do. Throughout the course of the play he uses many characters for his own personal gain: Gertrude (to hold power over Denmark); Rosencrantz and Guildenstern (to see if Hamlet's madness was real or just an act); Laertes (to kill Hamlet) and through the exposition, King Hamlet (who is killed so Claudius can get to the throne). Through Claudius' use of Laertes, we see the true immorality of his character with there being no other reason for his twisting of the truth than for personal gain."
| |
|
Tiberius and Claudius, 2005.
A comparative analysis of the reigns of Tiberius and Claudius, with particular reference to their respective achievements and impacts.
1,488 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 9 sources, MLA, AU$ 71.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper compares Tiberius and Claudius with reference to their dealings with the senate, their civil administration and their provincial and frontier policy. In the first area, Tiberius' reliance on Sejanus and adherence to Augustus is compared to Claudius' development of the civil service at the expense of his freedmen. In the second area, Tiberius' frugality is compared to Claudius' extensive building projects. In the third area, Tiberius' diplomacy and consolidation is compared to Claudius' expansionism. It is eventually concluded that the reign of Tiberius was in the long term more profitable for Rome.
From the Paper
"Finally, frontier and provincial policy was an area where the achievements, as well as the impact of each emperor varied significantly. Tiberius, as even Tacitus is prepared to concede, was a tactful and diplomatic administrator of the empire's borders, who focused more on consolidation than expansionism. Tacitus states that he strengthened the eastern frontiers by 'astute diplomacy without warfare.' (Annals, p216) Even in Africa, his suppression of the revolt of Tacfarinas was done with as little bloodshed as possible, and Bradley (p 535) notes that 'in two years peace returned to the province.' For the large part, Tiberius was content to maintain the policies of Augustus, using with slow Romanisation of provinces by installing client-kings."
| |
|
Claudius' Traits as A Machiavellian Character in "Hamlet", 2000.
A look at the character of Claudius from "Hamlet" as a quintessential Machiavellian character.
1,635 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 2 sources, AU$ 77.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this essay, the character of Claudius from Hamlet is shown as a quintessential Machiavellian character. Niccolo Machiavelli wrote the book entitled The Prince, and is known by some for making the guidelines on how to become the best prince through lies, corruption, evil, and murder. This essay examines how Claudius, the King of Denmark fulfills these guidelines. Claudius' Machavellian character is shown through the way he deceives others about his virtue, his development of schemes, and his belief that rules can easily be broken.
From the Paper
" A Machiavellian character is not hard to come by, and ample exist around us today. A person of this characteristic will break rules, pretend to be virtuous, plan schemes, and do anything they must, in order to receive what they strive for. In Hamlet, by William Shakespeare, a perfect example of such a character is displayed in Claudius, the New King of Denmark. Claudius performs many deceptive, and horrifying acts, which make him the quintessential Machiavellian character. Developing schemes, pretending to be virtuous, and proving his belief, through his actions, that rules may be broken, are the deeds he executes, which prove his true character."
| |
|
Claudius and the Romanisation of the Western Provinces, 2004.
A discussion on the Emperor Claudius' contribution to the Romanisation of the western empire and looks at the methods by which he did this.
2,145 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 13 sources, APA, AU$ 97.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper focuses on the Emperor Claudius contribution to the Romanisation of western provinces, focusing mainly on Gaul and Britain. The main methods he used to do this are discussed, including extension of citizenship, the use of Imperial cult, the presence of the Roman army, and conquest. The paper also makes an assessment of Claudius' policy as emperor.
From the Paper
"A fundamental aspect of Romanisation which underpinned most emperor's actions was their expansionist nature . With Claudius the most obvious indication of this is his conquest of Britain. However, the process of conquest and colonisation took off under Augustus 'the mere maintenance of order did not fulfil the ambition of the princeps or justify his mandate. There was hard work to be done in the provinces and on the frontiers.' Syme refers to the tendency of Augustus and subsequent Emperors to justify their rule by taking on new territory. There is much emphasis in the Res Gestae placed on the military successes of Augustus. Claudius too used this feature in conquering Britain, and in doing this 'he believed he had carved for himself a niche in the edifice of history.'"
| |
|
Emperor Claudius, 2005.
An analysis of the rule of the Roman Emperor Claudius.
1,168 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 12 sources, MLA, AU$ 58.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper addresses the argument of whether Tiberius Claudius Drusus Nero Germanicus was a success or a failure as an emperor. It analyses his unfortunate childhood as well as his reign and attempts to explain the reasoning behind his actions as emperor. It concludes that he was in fact an intelligent and successful Roman Emperor.
From the Paper
"The idea that the power of Rome lies in her Army, has been proven time and time again by figures such as Marius and Sulla. Claudius likewise was no stranger to this fact and, as a result, many of his first actions as Emperor were to secure the loyalty of the army and to establish some much needed military-credentials. Hennessy (1990) explains that following Claudius' rise to power with the support of the Praetorian Guard, he promised each guard 150 gold pieces with the intention of buying their allegiance and hence his protection. Claudius then went to plan and execute a campaign to, as Fagan (2004) argued, secure both military distinction and the respect of the Army. This, of course, came in the form of the famous invasion and annexation of Britain. To keep this strong military image throughout his reign, he added to the Roman Empire: Mauritania, Thrace and Lycia (BBC 2004). By the end of his reign, Claudius had been hailed Imperator twenty-seven times and had won a triumph (Fagan, 2004)."
| |
|
Hamlet and Claudius, 2004.
An analysis of the reasons for Hamlet?s delay in seeking revenge against Claudius in William Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
2,845 words (approx. 11.4 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 122.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper examines how Shakespeare?s "Hamlet" is a play about revenge and indecision and how, because Hamlet?s father is wronged, Hamlet himself spends most of the play deliberating on the subject of his revenge against his uncle, Claudius, who has killed his father, married his mother, and assumed the throne. It explores Hamlet?s quest for vengeance by looking at the text directly, taking cues from secondary sources, and concludes that Hamlet?s delay in taking vengeance is primarily based on his indecision, his self-interest, and his desire to protect Gertrude.
From the Paper
"Throughout the play, Hamlet makes his own choices regarding his plan for avenging his father, and these choices are affected by his own personal ideas about fate and what he sees himself as being chosen for (vengeance). Hamlet represents reluctance to carry out what he sees as his destined goal of getting rid of his father?s murderer and
his mother?s seducer: ?O cursed spite/ That ever I was born to set it right!? (Shakespeare, I,v, 188-9), he cries upon making Horatio and Marcellus swear to help him in his plans to oust Claudius. Hamlet is not just following the orders of his father?s ghost; he is struggling with his own goals and ideas about what is right and wrong; his conscience is
at war with his need for vengeance. He passes up many opportunities to either escape his fate of having to avenge his father and quiet his ghost or assure it. He chooses to make his vendetta intensely personal."
| |
|
?Gertrude and Claudius? and "Hamlet", 2004.
This paper discusses John Updike?s ?Gertrude and Claudius? and
Shakespeare?s ?Hamlet?, upon which Updike based his novel.
1,070 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 0 sources, AU$ 54.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that John Updike?s novel ?Gertrude and Claudius?, attempts to provide a past history for the Hamlet?s mother, Gertrude, but creates a far different woman than the sensual, guilty lady of the drama, ?Hamlet.? The author points out that what is so interesting about Updike?s version of the tale is, although the plot of the novel is virtually the same as the drama, Updike takes a completely different view of middle-aged sexuality. The paper relates that, in the Shakespearean play, Hamlet dominates the action, and there are only fleeting glimpses of Gertrude?s greater psychology; whereas, in Updike?s version, Gertrude is at the center of the drama.
From the Paper
"Updike portrays a much more beautiful vision of middle-aged sexuality than young Hamlet?s mind can possibly dream of. Updike?s Gertrude did not ?sink? into moral turpitude, changing from a weeping widow to a lusty bride, as her son tells the audience. ?Why she would hang on him/As if increase of appetite had grown/ By what it fed on, and yet within a month?. With which she followed my poor father?s body, Like Niobe, al tears?. married with mine uncle.? (1.2.144-149) Rather, the carnal pleasures Gertrude enjoyed with Claudius in Updike?s vision were her first experiences of a full sensuality. When Claudius and Gertrude first enjoy a night together, Updike writes, ?Surges of sensation in her lower parts lifted her so high her voice was flung from her like a bird's lost call.?"
| |
|
Hamlet and Claudius, 2004.
An analysis of Hamlet?s delay in seeking revenge against Claudius in William Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
2,845 words (approx. 11.4 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 122.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper examines how William Shakespeare?s "Hamlet" is a play about revenge and indecision and how, because Hamlet?s father is wronged, Hamlet himself spends most of the play deliberating on the subject of his revenge against his uncle, Claudius, who has killed his father, married his mother, and assumed the throne. It looks at how his father?s ghost pushes him to seek revenge, although he does not want to, and how there are many possible reasons for his delay in vengeance, among them Hamlet?s own mercurial nature and his desire to protect his mother. It examines Hamlet?s quest for vengeance by looking at the text directly and taking cues from secondary sources and concludes that Hamlet?s delay in taking vengeance is primarily based on his indecision, his self-interest, and his desire to protect Gertrude.
From the Paper
"Throughout the play, Hamlet makes his own choices regarding his plan for avenging his father, and these choices are affected by his own personal ideas about fate and what he sees himself as being chosen for (vengeance). Hamlet represents reluctance to carry out what he sees as his destined goal of getting rid of his father?s murderer and his mother?s seducer: ?O cursed spite/ That ever I was born to set it right!? (Shakespeare, I,v, 188-9), he cries upon making Horatio and Marcellus swear to help him in his plans to oust Claudius. Hamlet is not just following the orders of his father?s ghost; he is struggling with his own goals and ideas about what is right and wrong; his conscience is
at war with his need for vengeance. He passes up many opportunities to either escape his fate of having to avenge his father and quiet his ghost or assure it. He chooses to make his vendetta intensely personal. This personal vendetta makes Hamlet a dangerous character because he is working on the whims of his own emotions."
| |
|
Why Doesn?t Hamlet Just Kill Claudius?, 2002.
An analysis of Hamlet's psyche which is the center of Shakespeare's play and the reasons why he didn't kill Claudius.
2,515 words (approx. 10.1 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 110.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
Focusing on the evidence in the Hamlet?s first two soliloquies, this paper examines the psychological complexities that immobilize Hamlet and delay his revenge. It includes critical theories of T.S. Eliot and Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Evidence is also presented to show that in modern terms Hamlet could be described as a manic depressive. A close analysis of the diction and imagery of the soliloquies is supplied.
From the Paper
"Hamlet is Shakespeare?s adaptation of an old tale out of the ?revenge? tradition. As such it was considered an ?artistic failure? (Eliot) by T.S. Eliot and others who offered critical thoughts over the centuries. In opposition to Eliot, others, like Samuel Taylor Coleridge see in Hamlet a model of the psychological complexities that they imagine in themselves. Coleridge said, ?I have a smack of Hamlet? (Kermode 1135). With these words he started generations of scholars and theatregoers on their introspective analyses of how Hamlet?s delay in killing Claudius shows them something about their personal demons of delay. Hamlet had plenty of motive for killing Claudius, but the psychological perplexity of his character delays his revenge. If he just rushed ahead and killed Claudius, the play would be over way too soon and all those who read and watch Hamlet would lose the opportunity to see their own complicated psyches reflected in the central character. Believing that Shakespeare was concerned with deep questions of character and their universal application, rather than that he ?tackled a problem which proved too much for him? (Eliot), this paper, siding with the Coleridge faction, will analyze Hamlet?s first two soliloquies to show complex psychological factors that answer the question: Why Doesn?t Hamlet Just Kill Claudius?"
| |
|
Hamlet and Claudius, 2004.
A literary review of Shakespeare's "Hamlet" with particular focus on the issues of death and the afterlife.
1,068 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, AU$ 54.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
A study of Shakespeare's literature, focusing on premeditation and multiple deaths as determining factors in the afterlife. The character Clauduis in the Shakespearean play "Hamlet" dies multiple deaths to atone for his multitude of sins. This paper describes the ways and the reasons behind the "three deaths" of Claudius. The necesity for the multiple deaths and Hamlet's role in those deaths are justified within the context of the play. Also, justification for the death of Hamlet is given in respect to the murders of Claudius.
From the Paper
"Drenched in the darkness of death, ?The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark? thrusts the reader into the solemn quest of young Hamlet as he agonizes over the life and death of his father. Within the confines of the medieval world, Hamlet attempts to bestow upon Claudius, Hamlet?s uncle and the murderer of his father and later his mother, proper retribution while eliminating his inner turmoil surrounding his slain parents. Hamlet was initially weary of killing another person. However, with careful construction, Shakespeare manages to have the protagonist kill off Claudius in three ways: the first to revenge the death of Hamlet?s father, the second in retaliation for the pain Claudius caused Hamlet by killing King Hamlet, and the third to avenge the death of Gertrude, Hamlet?s mother. All three methods of death happen simultaneously and use distinctly different manners of execution. The reasoning behind Shakespeare?s need to kill a character thrice is unclear, but certain theories evidence relevant information to substantiate possible motives."
| |
|
Updike's "Gertrude and Claudius", 2002.
An analysis of the story and how it compares to Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
1,120 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 0 sources, AU$ 55.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper presents an analysis of Updike's "Gertrude and Claudius". While the plot remains the same as in Shakespeare's "Hamlet", Updike presents a completely different view of middle-aged sexuality in this story. The character of Gertrude is explored.
From the Paper
"?The plot of Shakespeare?s ?Hamlet? seems complicated enough!? a casual reader might be tempted to exclaim. Why render the story even more complicated by attempting to surmise ?back story? of some of the more minor characters of the tale, in relation to the action of this already very long play? However, John Updike?s novel Gertrude and Claudius attempts create just such a prologue. In providing a past history for the hero?s mother Gertrude, Updike creates a far different woman in his novel than the sensual, guilty lady of the Jacobean drama ?Hamlet.?
"In Updike?s vision of Gertrude, Gertrude or ?Gerutha? was a strong, beautiful young woman who was married to a warrior Horwendil the Jute by her father. She didn?t love the man, but was forced into the arrangement. When the warrior?s father died, he and she assumed the throne of Denmark as king and queen. Gertrude never really accepted her status as wife of Horwendil and mother of Hamlet. She only came to a full sensuous understanding of herself as a woman when she entered into a liaison with her husband?s brother."
| |
|
Revenge on Claudius, 2004.
Examines the main protagonist's desire for revenge in William Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
2,845 words (approx. 11.4 pages), 10 sources, APA, AU$ 122.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
Shakespeare?s "Hamlet" is a play about revenge and indecision. Because Hamlet?s father is wronged, Hamlet himself spends most of the play deliberating on the subject of his revenge against his uncle Claudius, who has killed his father, married his mother, and assumed the throne. This paper examines Hamlet?s quest for vengeance by examining the text itself, as well as secondary sources, and concludes that Hamlet?s delay in taking vengeance is primarily based on his indecision, his self-interest, and his desire to protect Gertrude.
From the Paper
"In putting on the play to mock Claudius, Hamlet takes a step towards making his vengeance complete, but he loses something of his own nature in the process. ?Forced to master his opponent?s craft of smiling villainy, he becomes not merely an actor but also a dramatist, ingeniously using a troupe of traveling players, with their ?murder in jest,? to unmask the king?s own hypocritical show?? (Neill, p. 314). This is just playing at real revenge, though. Hamlet does eventually kill Claudius and rid the throne of this usurper, and it is tragic that he dies in the process of doing this. Vengeance could have been carried out with less of a tragic risk to his own personal safety if it had been less personalized and brooded over for a lesser period of time."
| |
|
"I, Claudius" (Robert Graves), "The Annals of Imperial Rome" (Tacitus) and "The Twelve Caesars" (Suetonius), 1992.
Critiques Graves' portrait of the Roman emperor in light of two historical works.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 3 sources, AU$ 68.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
From the Paper
"Life in Rome among the upper class during the Republican Era was steeped in intrigue, violence,and unscrupulous morals as well as a lust for greed and power. Many would argue that this is human nature and that nothing has changed in 2,000 years. Be that as it may, the reign of Claudius Drusus Nero Germanicus, known as Claudius, who lived from 10 B.C. to A.D. 54, was no different, in fact, by many standards was very ordinary in a frightening sort of way. Robert Graves, in I, Claudius, which was first published in 1934, attempts to provide a fascinating look at the period through the eyes of Claudius. The purpose of this paper is to critique Graves' non-fictionalized "autobiography" of Claudius particularly as to how it meshes with history in light of the writings by Tacitus in The Annals of Imperial Rome (translated and published in 1988) and Suetonius' ..."
| |
|
Claudius' Conquest of Britain, 1996.
Historical, cultural, political & military background to Roman Empire's expansion into Britain.
1,575 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 6 sources, AU$ 80.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
From the Paper
"The Roman conquest of Britain by Claudius' legions in A.D. 43 illustrates several aspects of the process of expansion of the Roman empire. The Roman attitude toward the barbarian world, the ever-increasing political importance of expansion, the dependence of the emperors on the armies, and manner in which conquest was a self-generating process can all be seen in a brief examination of the circumstances surrounding the conquest of Britain.
The poets and historians of the Augustan age reinforced the growing belief that there was no part of the known world that Rome was not intended to rule. As the historian Livy noted, Jupiter himself had said, "it is the gods' will that my Rome shall be capital of the world [and] no human forces can resist Roman arms" (quoted by Wells 76). Livy knew, of course, that Augustus' adoptive father Julius Caesar had tried twice ..."
| |
|
Shakespeare's Villains, 2003.
A study of two of William Shakespeare's villains, Iago in "Othello" and Claudius in "Hamlet".
1,770 words (approx. 7.1 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 83.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper examines two of the most infamous villains in all of Shakespearian literature, Iago in "Othello" and Claudius in "Hamlet". The paper points out that both Claudius and Iago are driven by immoral ambitions. It adds, however, that unlike many "evil villains" in literature, these two characters are far more complex than may be seen at first. The paper praises Shakespeare as a master at providing an audience with keen insight into the human psyche through the actions and words of his heroes, and even more so, his villains. To conclude, the paper maintains that Iago and Claudius, although driven by different ambitions, are both villains in the sense that they have a specific target in mind and will stop at nothing until that aim is reached.
From the Paper
"Another common aspect of Iago's and Claudius's villainous character is their use of women to further their own goals. It is unclear how much Claudius is driven by lust for Gertrude, but marrying her was definitely a strategic move, and part of his master plan to keep the thrown away from Hamlet. By doing this, he is using Gertrude to advance his scheme, convincing her that her son is insane and must be sent away. Iago, a character who does not seem to plan out his every move, also makes women mere pawns in his game. The woman whose innocence and naivety he exploits the most is Desdemona. Claiming to be driven by lust, as perhaps was Claudius, Iago says he lusts after Desdemona to get revenge for Othello's infidelity with Emilia. As he says, it is "wife for wife." This is not the main reason he harms Desdemona, although he enjoys the pain he causes to all those around him. Rather, he uses Desdemona's sweetness to convince Othello that she is cheating on him with Cassio, whom Iago sent to speak to her. This meticulous orchestration of events proves that he is clearly aware of his villainous behavior and feels no regret for any of the losses suffered by the other characters under his influence."
| |
|
"Hamlet", 2007.
An analysis of William Shakespeare's "Hamlet", focusing on Hamlet's delay in killing Claudius.
2,319 words (approx. 9.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 103.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explores why Hamlet delayed the revenge of his father's death by killing Claudius, in William Shakespeare's play, "Hamlet". The author examines several possible explanations about why Hamlet did not take immediate revenge including fear of becoming king, suffering from an Oedipus complex, fear of the ghost and other factors that may have played a part in Hamlet's reluctance to exact revenge on the man who killed his father.
From the Paper
"Along those same lines have been arguments that Hamlet was mentally stable but to weak minded to make a decision as strong as deciding to commit murder. This theory is not one that is easily supported however because he shows in many instances during the play that he can make a decision when he needs to. He also does not display weakness when he first begins killing characters. Whatever caused him to delay in the killing of his stepfather probably had more to do with the task of killing Claudius than the act of killing in itself."
|
|
|
