Laertes:
* Immediate and Violent: Laertes is a hot-headed, impulsive young man. Upon learning of his father's death, he immediately wants to avenge his father's murder. He demands justice from the King and is ready to use violence to achieve it.
* Action-Oriented: Laertes doesn't dwell on his grief; instead, he focuses on taking action. He quickly rallies his followers and plans a rebellion against the King.
* Driven by Duty and Anger: Laertes' primary motivation is honor and vengeance. He feels a strong sense of duty to avenge his father's death and sees it as a personal obligation. His anger fuels his actions.
Hamlet:
* Introspective and Contemplative: Hamlet is a more introspective and philosophical character. He is deeply affected by his father's murder and grapples with the moral complexities of revenge. He questions the nature of life and death, contemplates the consequences of his actions, and struggles with the emotional burden of grief.
* Hesitant and Doubting: Unlike Laertes, Hamlet is hesitant to act immediately. He doubts his father's ghost, questions his own sanity, and fears the consequences of revenge. He is tormented by the moral implications of taking a life.
* Driven by Grief and Doubt: Hamlet's motivation is a mixture of grief, duty, and doubt. While he wants to avenge his father, his philosophical nature and internal struggles lead to much hesitation and inner turmoil.
In summary:
Laertes is a man of action, driven by immediate anger and a strong sense of duty to avenge his father. Hamlet is a man of contemplation, torn between his desire for revenge and the moral and psychological complexities of his situation.
These contrasting reactions highlight the diverse ways in which grief and anger can manifest, and the different ways in which individuals cope with loss and injustice.