Question

read the words of king claudius in act iv of hamlet. how do his words reflect politics in shakespeares day? come, gertrude, well call up our wisest friends; and let them know both what we mean to do, and whats untimely done: so, haply, slander, whose whisper oer the worlds diameter, as level as the cannon to his blank, transports his poisond shot, may miss our name, and hit the woundless air. o! come away; royal leaders were respectful to ordinary people. royal leaders were concerned with their public image. common people were showing opposition to the queen. common people were afraid to speak out against leaders.

Explanation:

King Claudius wants to call his wisest friends to avoid slander, indicating concern for public image. In Shakespeare's time, royal leaders were indeed worried about how they were perceived. There is no indication of respect for ordinary people, opposition to the queen, or common - people's fear of speaking out in the given lines.

Answer:

Royal leaders were concerned with their public image.