Answer: Manipulative
In Act IV of Hamlet, we see Laertes coming back from France. As he faces the king, Claudius tells him that Polonius is dead, and tries to turn him into an ally against Hamlet. He succeeds, and Laertes decides to avenge the death of his father by killing Hamlet.
Answering the question, In Act IV of Hamlet, Claudius's interaction with Laertes suggests that Claudius is manipulative. The correct answer is Manipulative.
While Horatio was discussing with the sailors, Claudius and Laertes were having conservation about Polonius' death. Claudius told Laertes that the reason why he buried Polonius secretly and not dealt with Hamlet for the murder was that Hamlet was loved by the common people and the Queen also loved him passionately.
In his discussion with Laertes, Claudius pointed out that he wouldn’t want to upset the people and the queen.
Claudius was highly manipulative because he tried to coax Laertes that he was not responsible for the death of Polonius. Claudius was trying to absolve himself of the killing by convincing Laertes that he wasn’t the one that killed Polonius.
Claudius was so manipulative throughout the play. He manipulated the Queen, Hamlet, his son and also the Polonius family.
In the play, Claudius used his manipulative skills to confuse other people’s minds to have his way. He confused the mind of others to keep his throne and continue to rule demark.
Therefore, in Act IV of Hamlet, Claudius's interaction with Laertes suggests that Claudius is manipulative.
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