What is the basis for both Laertes's and Polonius's objections to Ophelia's relationship with Hamlet? Which of their arguments seems most (and least) persuasive or fair? What does their treatment of Ophelia in act I, scene iii reveal about their motivations? What does it suggests about their attitude toward Ophelia and toward women in general? How does class or station function in their arguments?
Laertes and Polonius both have a justified basis for opposing Ophelia's relationship with Hamlet. Laertes and Polonius are looking out for their beautiful Ophelia as any brother or father would. One of the most important aspects of a relationship is how the girls father views the male figure in the relationship. In addition an older brother such as Laertes would take after his father and do what is right. The conflict with these people revolve around Hamlet's sanity which is clearly not sane, therefore causing the resentment towards him. Laertes and Polonius feel like they have a control over the women in their lives, as many man would. And class plays a smaller variable in which Laertes and Polonius think that Hamlet coming from such a high class may not be the best of Ophelia.
No comments:
Post a Comment