Hamlet: Polonius, Laertes, and Ophelia 

Much to my surprise, I have thoroughly enjoyed our class readings and discussions concerning Hamlet. I have never been a very big fan of Shakespeare, but this play definitely changes that opinion - I mean I don't even mind the crazy language. One Act into Hamlet and I am already able to pinpoint some of the overarching themes and motifs, and the characters have already taught me a lot about the setting and lifestyle in that time. I thought the third scene in the first Act was extremely intriguing, as it deviated attention from Hamlet onto the family of Polonius, and his children Laertes and Ophelia. This Act not only opened doorways into their family, but also served to illuminate the central character of Hamlet and the plotline itself. 

In this Act, we get an outside view of the central character we just encountered: Hamlet. When I was first introduced to Hamlet, I developed a liking for his character right away - he not only seemed to have wit and intellect, but genuine love for his father. He was a very easy character to sympathize for, but I also felt as if he had a strength within him to keep him going. In this Act, we encountered Laertes speaking to Ophelia about Hamlet. When speaking of their love, Laertes claims, "Perhaps he loves you now..." and "...his will is not his own. For he himself is subject to his birth" (Act 1 Scene 3). I think these phrases are very noteworthy, because they indicate Laertes' lack of trust for Hamlet - yet they do not imply any sort of lack of respect. It seems that Laertes values Hamlet as a man and a Prince, but recognizes the fragility in Ophelia's relationship with a Prince. When Polonius denounces Ophelia for her relationship with Hamlet, he claims she is the common and vulgar one, and that she is the one at fault for pursuing a relationship with a man like Hamlet. Not once does he condemn Hamlet, even though he believes Hamlet is simply playing Ophelia and has no true attachment to her. In this way, Polonius shows a form of respect for Hamlet as well. Furthermore, the way in which both the male characters speak to Ophelia as if she is the only person at fault illustrates the expected role of women versus men. Ophelia is expected to be a proper young woman for both the reputation of her brother and her father, while Hamlet has the freedom to pursue this "fling" with Ophelia if he pleases to do so.

Another interesting part of this scene was the whole idea of the relationship between Ophelia and Hamlet. Does Hamlet love Ophelia? How far has their relationship gotten? I want to believe that Hamlet does have a true attachment to Ophelia, I really do. But it's also necessary to consider his position and state of mind, making it a big possibility he is simply playing her. I thought that his relationship with Ophelia served to illuminate the Queen's new relationship with Hamlet's uncle, King Claudius. While Hamlet's relationship with Ophelia seems free of structure, and very emotional as Hamlet has sworn the vows of heaven. I perceive both the King and Queen as very fake people. Claudius tells his people that everything is okay when it truly isn't (seems vs. is) while the Queen barely mourns her own husband's death. The combination of these two yields a very dolled up and polished relationship that serves as a big contrast to Hamlet and Ophelia's supposed relationship. I'm looking forward to hear more about what this relationship truly is. 

I thought this whole interaction between this particular family was very significant for the plot itself - it's amazing how the smallest of interactions have such a level of depth. It reminds me that one can never rule out anything when it comes to fine literature.