Meaning: This quote by David Pierce, an actor, encapsulates the complex and often misunderstood nature of the character Laertes in William Shakespeare's play "Hamlet." Laertes is a pivotal character in the play, and his portrayal requires a deep understanding of his motivations and emotions. Pierce's reflection on his portrayal of Laertes sheds light on the depth of the character and the challenges of accurately interpreting his role.

Laertes is a young nobleman in the court of Denmark and the son of Polonius. He is depicted as impulsive, hot-headed, and fiercely loyal to his family. His character is driven by a desire for honor and justice, which ultimately leads him to seek revenge for the death of his father and sister. However, unlike the brooding and introspective Hamlet, Laertes is often portrayed as more straightforward and action-oriented.

Pierce's statement about finding every laugh as Laertes is significant in that it highlights the complexity of the character's emotions. Laertes' motivations are deeply rooted in his love for his family, particularly his sister Ophelia, and his grief over their deaths. While Laertes is driven by a thirst for vengeance, he is also a multifaceted character who experiences moments of joy, sorrow, and conflict.

In many stage productions of "Hamlet," Laertes is often portrayed as a one-dimensional antagonist, driven solely by his desire for revenge against Hamlet. However, Pierce's reflection challenges this oversimplified interpretation. By acknowledging that he found every laugh as Laertes, he acknowledges the character's humanity and the range of emotions that he embodies.

The realization that Pierce later expresses, that you really shouldn't find any laughs at all in Laertes, speaks to the deeper understanding he gained about the character. It suggests that Laertes' outward displays of joy or humor may be masking deeper pain and turmoil. This realization underscores the complexity of Laertes' character and the internal conflicts that drive his actions.

Furthermore, Pierce's statement serves as a reminder to actors and directors that a nuanced and empathetic approach to portraying characters like Laertes is crucial. It encourages a deeper exploration of the character's psyche and motivations, rather than relying on surface-level interpretations that may overlook the character's emotional depth.

In summary, David Pierce's reflection on his portrayal of Laertes in "Hamlet" offers valuable insights into the complexity of the character. His acknowledgement of finding every laugh as Laertes and his subsequent realization of the character's deeper emotional struggles shed light on the multifaceted nature of Laertes' portrayal. This quote serves as a reminder of the importance of delving beneath the surface of characters and approaching them with empathy and understanding.