"Something is rotten in the state of Denmark." As Hamlet progresses, Shakespeare reveals the true scope of this rottenness, which extends to almost every character in the play. The all pervasive rottenness present in Elsinore is portrayed by Shakespeare both through the actions of his characters and through the language and imagery used. Rottenness, as referred to by Horatio, refers to moral, social and political corruption. In the context of Hamlet, the word 'rotten' incorporates all of these meaning.
             The idea that 'something is rotten in the state of Denmark' is first presented in Act I as two issues; the murder of the late King Hamlet and the incestuous marriage of Claudius and Gertrude. In the following acts we learn that 'rotten' also refers to many other issues and characters, a rottenness often graphically portrayed by Shakespeare's use of imagery and themes.
             As with most of the characters in Hamlet, the word rotten applies to Claudius in many ways. His murder of the late king Hamlet and his subsequent marriage to Gertrude, actions that occur before the play begins, assert Claudius' rotten or evil character. Throughout the rest of the play, Claudius constantly affirms his evil character through his actions, thus convincing the audience of his immorality.
             Claudius' relationship with Gertrude appears to be built on moral corruption. Their marriage is somewhat of a mystery, however, we suspects that their love for each other may not be 'true'. When finally Claudius and Gertrude are alone in Act IV, Scene 2, both lie to each other. Claudius may not be truly in love with Gertrude, merely marrying her to further his quest for power. As in many of his relationships, Claudius' relationship with Gertrude is based on his immortality and distrust.
             Claudius' corruption affects every character in the play. Claudius uses his immorally acquired power to influence those around him. This is clear with his relations...