Achashverosh's Shock and Fury/2

Achashverosh's Surprise

Exegetical Approaches

Unaware

Achashverosh had been unaware of Esther's Jewish identity, and being both drunk and foolish/ fickle, did not immediately make the connection to Haman's edict.

Misled by Haman

Achashverosh had been deceived by Haman, who had hidden the identity of the nation he was planning on destroying and/or misled him regarding what he intended to do to that nation.  Thus, it was with Esther's comment that Achashverosh first realized that Haman planned to decimate the Jews.

Playing Innocent

Esther's words did not surprise Achashverosh, but he feigned innocence so as to cast the blame solely on Haman.