Question

read the words of king claudius in act iv of hamlet. 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; how do his words reflect politics in shakespeares day? 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:

In Shakespeare's time, royal leaders were very concerned with their public image. Claudius wants to control the narrative (let friends know what they mean to do and what's untimely done) to avoid slander (negative public perception) hitting them (their name). He doesn't mention respect for ordinary people. There's no indication of common people opposing the queen or being afraid to speak out. The focus is on Claudius's concern about their public image.

Answer:

Royal leaders were concerned with their public image.