* Laertes: Laertes is a foil to Hamlet in several ways. He is more impulsive and action-oriented than the introspective Hamlet. He is driven by a thirst for revenge for his father's death, mirroring Hamlet's own desire for vengeance. However, unlike Hamlet, Laertes acts without hesitation and does not grapple with the moral implications of his actions.
* Fortinbras: Fortinbras, the Prince of Norway, is another foil to Hamlet. He is a young prince who, like Hamlet, has lost his father. However, unlike Hamlet, he is decisive and takes swift action to avenge his father's death. His willingness to go to war against Poland highlights Hamlet's inaction and contemplation.
* Horatio: Horatio serves as a foil to Hamlet in terms of temperament. He is calm, level-headed, and loyal. While Hamlet is consumed by grief and anger, Horatio provides a voice of reason and stability. He is also a crucial witness to many events in the play, providing a more objective perspective on Hamlet's actions.
* Claudius: While not a traditional foil, Claudius can be seen as a foil to Hamlet in his actions and motivations. Both characters experience a desire for revenge, but Claudius acts on his desire without remorse, while Hamlet struggles with the ethical implications of his actions. This contrast highlights the different approaches to dealing with grief, power, and justice.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of a foil character lies in how they highlight and contrast with the protagonist, and there are many ways to interpret the relationships between characters in Hamlet.