Shakespeare's use of theme “Pride leads to downfall" can be best evaluated when Claudius uses flattery to convince Laertes to kill Hamlet.
When Gertrude informs Claudius that Polonius has died, Claudius understands that it could have been him if he had been present. Claudius is more concerned that he would be blamed for Hamlet's deeds than he is saddened by Polonius' demise. When they were discussing how Hamlet killed Laertes's father, Claudius was asked by Laertes why he hadn't slain Hamlet.
Claudius replied that he couldn't kill Hamlet since doing so would endanger the Queen. Claudius went on to claim that everyone would be against him because they loved Hamlet. Claudius started out by complimenting Laertes by calling him a man of empty words like Hamlet or a man who wanted to get even for the death of his father.
To learn more about Hamlet: https://brainly.com/question/11328430
#SPJ4
