Comparing Shakespeare's Hamlet: Polonius, Laertes And Ophelia

In Act 1, Scene 3 of William Shakespeare's Hamlet, Polonius, Laertes and Ophelia’s father, prepares and warns his children about their near future as young adults. This scene veers away from Prince Hamlet’s main storyline and focuses on the domestic relationship of the chief counselor’s family. Though their discussion primarily reveals their family dynamic, it also alludes to Hamlet’s future. In Scene 3, Laertes’s relationship with his father and sister appears typical for the time. His father advises him to stay true to himself and reminds him to protect his reputation and family legacy while studying in Paris. While Polonius displays immense care for his son, he and his son also exhibit over protection of Ophelia. Both men agree on Hamlet’s

Like any fine father, Polonius grants Laertes advice for his academic transfer to Paris. Polonius’ advice derives from his own honesty and experiences as he states, “to thine own self be true... Thou canst not then be false to any man” (Line 84-86). In addition, Polonius also encourages him to regulate his money wisely and to associate with proper individuals. His strong emphasis on integrity heavily reflects himself as he likely abides by the same rules. Similarly, when giving Ophelia advice to disassociate with Hamlet, Laertes also speaks from experience. Proven on line 51, Ophelia remarks, “Do not, as some ungracious pastors do, Show me the steep and thorny way to heaven” (Lines 51-52) and calls Laertes a hypocrite. She claims that he too uses his words untruly and indulges in unholy acts with women. Nonetheless, Laertes still applies his knowledge for the welfare of his sister. His endearment further attests to his righteous character which derived from his honorable father. The Juxtaposition of their healthy relationship and Hamlet’s toxic relationship with his new stepfather create contempt between the characters. Buried with grief and loathing, Hamlet despises King Claudius’s absence of empathy and support for himself. The relationship between Polonius and Laertes is everything that Prince Hamlet and King Claudius’s lack. Though neither relationship reflects the other,