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In Shakespeare's play Hamlet, how do Laertes and Hamlet compare as sons? What is the nature of Claudius' questions?

Your post presents two distinct ideas regarding William Shakespeare's tragedy Hamlet. I'll address each individually: 


  1. Compare Laertes and Hamlet as sons. 
    Hamlet and Laertes have a startling amount in common, which is not immediately apparent to the reader given Hamlet's immediate presentation as somewhat insane, which contrasts sharply against Laertes' apparent success and composure. However, each son is desperately loyal to his father, which in turn motivates many of their respective actions. Where the two men differ is in their philosophical reflection; Laertes, upon the news of first his father's and then Ophelia's deaths, is intent on revenge. This is unlike Hamlet, who agonizes over the certainty of his father's killer's identity, the morality of revenge, and the mortality of man. 

  2. What is the nature of Claudius' questions? 
    I'm assuming you're referring to IV.vii, in which Claudius asks Laertes a series of questions. His questions are designed to insinuate that Laertes will not be a good son if he does not avenge his father's death. 

I would go more in depth with #2, but  I am unsure of whether or not this is specifically the scene to which you refer.

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