Indifference to Suffering: Characters may exhibit a lack of empathy or concern for the pain and suffering of others. They may make light of serious situations or dismiss the feelings of others without remorse.
Cruelty and Violence: Some characters engage in acts of cruelty or violence without showing any remorse or compassion. They may inflict physical or emotional pain on others without considering the consequences of their actions.
Manipulation and Deceit: Callous characters may manipulate and deceive others for their own personal gain or satisfaction. They may lie, cheat, or betray others without feeling any guilt or remorse.
Emotional Detachment: Certain characters display a lack of emotional attachment or connection to others. They may seem cold, aloof, or indifferent, and they may not express emotions such as love, compassion, or sympathy.
Lack of Regret or Remorse: Callous characters often lack the ability to feel regret or remorse for their actions. They may justify their behavior, blame others, or simply move on without acknowledging the harm they have caused.
Pursuit of Personal Goals at Any Cost: Some characters are so focused on achieving their own goals that they disregard the feelings or rights of others. They may be willing to sacrifice others or cause harm in order to get what they want.
Dehumanization of Others: Callous individuals may view others as less than human or as objects to be used for their own purposes. They may lack empathy or understanding for the experiences or perspectives of others.
By portraying characters who display these traits, Shakespeare explores the complexity of human nature and the consequences of callousness and indifference.