Hamlet and a large number of Disney films share many parallels. The Lion King was actually based entirely on the play Hamlet. Many of the themes in this play are relevant in many other plays, such as Beauty and the Beast, Mulan, and Hercules. Beauty and the Beast helps convey betrayal among people who care about each other, while Mulan allows people to see deeper meaning in Hamlet's personal passion. Additionally, Hercules helps connect the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia to a romance almost as complicated. In constructing this essay, I was able to discern a deeper meaning of Shakespeare's wise words by taking the smallest details and relating them to something similar and familiar. Before Act 1, King Hamlet is murdered by his brother Claudius. Claudius' feelings regarding his act of betrayal are well represented by the song "Be Prepared" from the Disney film, The Lion King. Claude plots against his brother Hamlet to become king of Denmark. Scar, who sings "Be Prepared", also plots against his brother in order to seize the throne. “Prepare yourself… for the death of the king!” / For what? Is he sick? / No, stupid, we're going to kill him... and Simba too! (Be prepared). Scar uses the hyenas to convey his strategy and plans to murder Simba. It can be argued that Polonius may have assisted Claudius in the murder of his reigning king. Polonius is a constant voice in Claudius' head and very much like his own personal spy. Of course, Polonius uses this connection to try to expand his foothold in the monarchy and works to gain the attention of the current king, even if it means sacrificing the happiness, security, and trust of his only daughter. .. middle of paper ...... insulted her when he knew his father and uncle were watching and taking notes. Additionally, I don't understand why Hamlet waited until now to reveal his true feelings towards Ophelia. It was probably her death that made him realize that he was unable to save her by telling her to leave the castle, but had instead disturbed her sanity. I found it rather surprising to discover how many similarities there were between the different Disney films and Hamlet. I was also pleased that my understanding of Hamlet was greatly aided by this article. My understanding of Hamlet may have been altered, as the similarities between Disney song lyrics and Hamlet opened my mind to new ideas and may have also allowed me to view Disney films differently familiar. Hamlet had many similarities with many other works, even in elementary level texts and songs..