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Ophelia's Treatment Of Women In Hamlet

2138 Words9 Pages

Misogyny has been a societal issue, which was exceptionally prominent during the Shakspearean era. Particularly, Hamlet, written by William Shakespeare, may be interpreted in various ways to analyze and dissect the play. Delving into the play from a feminist perspective, sexism is evident. The representation of women in the literature clearly distinguishes the patriarchal society present. Turning its focus onto Ophelia, who falls victim to the denigration received from numerous male leads. The prevalence of the power dynamic between genders portrays society's treatment of women. Consequently, Ophelia's role highlights the distinction between the treatment of women and men in Hamlet.
Turning the focus on the portrayal of Ophelia, she lives …show more content…

Another aspect in which she faces sexism is Hamlet. During Act III, scene I, Ophelia and Hamlet engage in a preplanned interaction in the hopes of ending Hamlet's "madness." Throughout the exchange, Hamlet says, "Get thee to a nunnery." (Act 3, scene 1, lines 131-134). This particular line may be interpreted in several ways. Considering Hamlet's internalized deep-rooted emotions of discontent towards his mother, it is safe to assume the line was spoken with negative connotations. For instance, Hamlet expresses similar opinions toward Gertrude, "Such an act That blurs the grace and blush of modesty" (Act 3 Scene 3 lines 47-48). He criticizes his mothering immodesty for remarrying shortly afterward the King's death. The line depicts her hold internal anger towards his mother. Analyzing the scene in which Hamlet converses with Ophelia, it essentially was done to belittle her, possibly stemming from the betrayal he felt from his mother. Due to the deep patriarchal view, he inputs women, he suggests Ophelia devote herself to morality and purity. In his eyes, refraining from romantic relationships and remaining faithful increases a woman's value. Therefore, through such suggestions and connotations, Hamlet feels Ophelia has not fulfilled the expectations expected of women, which is a recurring theme throughout the rest of the

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