The Hamlet Project

Ah, yes, Claudius’ mythic friends. They were mentioned in an earlier scene. They’re wise, apparently. But despite “All” chanting “Treason” – he doesn’t really seem to have any friends left. He might count Osric on his team but Osric, we’ve seen, goes where the wind is blowing. (Or takes his hat off according to the reported weather.) But Osric is not in the least bit likely to stick his neck out, especially when the wind is blowing with poisoned swords and poisoned wine in it. Who is Claudius appealing to? The ALL? The mysterious ALL who chanted “Treason!”? That’s who he hopes will defend him? But whoever ALL is – they don’t defend him at all.