Conflict Is Inevitable: Hamlet and Gladiator

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Through the impact of human nature, the inescapable chain effect and the constant endeavour to reconcile with our minds, conflict has become an inevitable and naturally occurring process in society. Conflict is a clash of ideas, emotions, thoughts, beliefs, people, or between an individual and themself. It is the distinguishing characteristics of humans, the mental struggle within individuals and consequences of actions that make conflict an inevitable part of our everyday lives. Through strong characters and dramatic plots, John Marsden’s Hamlet and Ridley Scott’s Gladiator explore the ideas of both internal and external conflict. Conflict is a consequence of our actions and our thoughts, and is inevitable due to the desire that is part of human nature. As Henry George quoted, “Human are the only animals whose desires increase as they are fed.” In both Hamlet and Gladiator, the conflict in the texts arises from the jealous drive and desire for power of the antagonists. Although the crime of regicide would have fulfilled his desires, Claudius begins to see the reality of the situation when his evil deed begins to put him in danger. The guilt Claudius feels for his actions, is highlighted in the line; “Oh! My crime is foul. It smells to the highest heavens. A brother’s murder. The earliest of crimes, the worst of crimes. Cain killed Abel and I have followed in his path. I want to pray!” With the inability to maintain a balance between human desires and simple etiquette, conflict cannot be prevented or avoided. Greed and envy can lead an individual to create a greater conflict within themselves and involving others. Commodus from Gladiator; falling victim to unrequited love, murdered his father for his own benefit including the power of the empire of Rome. The unrequited love is demonstrated in the lines; “I would butcher the whole world if only you would have

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