Explanation:
In William Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet,” the new King of Denmark in Act 1 is Claudius, who has recently taken the throne after the death of his brother, King Hamlet. Claudius is a complex character who is both ambitious and manipulative. He is responsible for the murder of his brother, which allows him to seize power, and he is also deeply insecure about his position as king. Throughout the play, Claudius is haunted by the ghost of King Hamlet, who accuses him of his murder and urges his son, Prince Hamlet, to avenge his death. Claudius’s character serves as a foil to Hamlet’s, as they represent two very different approaches to power and leadership. Claudius’s reign is marked by corruption and deceit, while Hamlet’s values truth and justice.