Character Analysis: Fortinbras

1. "Now, sir, young Fortinbras, of unimproved mettle hot and full, hath in the skirts of Norway here and there sharked up a list of lawless resolutes..." (I.1.95-98)
      Horatio says this to Marcellus because he is confused with what is going on. Horatio explains that  the king of Norway, Fortinbras, was killed by the old King Hamlet. Therefore, young Fortinbras wants revenge. Horatio explains that young Fortinbras is very bold and courageous and determined to win back what his father lost.

2. "...young Fortinbras, holding a weak supposal of our worth, or thinking by our late dear brother's death our state to be disjoint and out of frame..." (I.2.17-20)
     Claudius is speaking with Voltemand and Cornelius because he has a task for them. He is worried about young Forinbras' determination and strength. He does not know whether Fortinbras is underestimating him or not, but he is coming to take back what his father lost.

3. "Go, Captain, from me greet the Danish king. Tell him that by his license Fortinbras craves the conveyance of a promised march over his kingdom." (IV.4.1-4)
    Fortinbras is speaking with the Captain of his army. He is being very forceful because of his determination and desire to win back the land. Everytime Fortinbras is introduced or is talked about, he shows his strength and persistance to make his father proud.

4. "Witness this army of such mass and charge, led by a delicate and tender prince, whose spirit, with divine ambition puffed..." (IV.4.47-49)
    Hamlet is talking outloud to himself because he is very upset with his own self. He is inspired by young Fortinbras' determination to actually put into action what he oringinally set out to do. Hamlet said long ago that he would get revenge for his father's death, but he never did. He has been holding back. Fortinbras does it right away, without hesitation.

5. "Let four captains bear Hamlet like a soldier to the stage, for he was likely, had he been put on,  to have proved most royal..." (V.2.397-399)
   Fortinbras says this when he sees what has happened in the castle. He sees many dead bodies laying on the ground, including Claudius and Hamlet. Therefore, Forinbras will become the new king of Denmark. He kindly tells his men to carry Hamlet like a soldier, because that would be respectable. Fortinbras says that if Hamlet had the chance, he would have been a great king.