How does laertes's character develop between act i and act iv of the play? in act i, laertes is violent and impulsive; in act iv, he is calm and thoughtful. in act i, laertes is melancholy; in act iv, he is cheerful. in act i, laertes is stubborn and disobedient; in act iv, he is obedient and respectful. in act i, laertes is calm and dutiful; in act iv, he is vengeful and does not care about rules.