Post-Colonialism and Poland: From the Perspective of Hamlet
In the study of postcolonial theory, the focus usually is on those spaces and areas
whereby European colonialism has a political history, or a territorial history. The focus of this
postcolonial theory will be a different one as it will be primarily on Poland. Through the lens of
Hamlet, the Shakespearean play, this paper will address how Fortinbras wants to conquer Poland
and explore this in relation to colonialism. The paper will further highlight how Shakespeare
incorporates the theme of colonialism in the Elizabethan era into the play. Finally, the analysis
will make a deduction on the playwright’s disregard of the ‘colony’. The basic argument in this
paper is that Poland, unlike many post-colonial spaces, is often viewed from the lens of
‘otherness.’
Fortinbras takes the deliberate action of raising an army to conquer Poland, one of
Norway’s territories. As Hamlet foresees the ‘imminent death of 20,000 men’, it is critical to
point out that he does not do this to underscore an unjustified cause. On the contrary, he does this
in admiration and envy for Fortinbras. It is critical to highlight the relevance of masculinity in
this particular case. Clearly, the course of action taken by Hamlet is a clear illustration of the fact
that he admired the masculinity of Fortinbras, evidenced by the fact that he was ready to act. In
response, Hamlet portrays his shame in his indecisiveness. Quite evidently, Fortinbras teaches
Hamlet "Rightly to be great is not to stir without great argument, but greatly to find quarrel in a
straw when honor's at the stake." He wanted to prove his masculinity. Ultimately, he actually did,
to the extent that he received admiration from Hamlet. The underlying fact is that Fortinbras had
to attack. The theme of post-colonialism is indeed very relevant in this case. There is a clear
struggle for political and cultural identity.
