Paradox In Hamlet And Ophelia

Hamlet and Ophelia “This was sometime a paradox, but now the time gives it proof. I did love you once… I loved you not” (3.1.114,119). Confusion clouds the audience’s judgement reading this quote from Hamlet. His paradox insinuates that he is insane and truly did not love her. Contrary to belief though, this quote was a way to set his “mousetrap” and force her to be in the background of his grand scheme. The audience must draw conclusions concerning their relationship because their love is not the main focus of the play and Hamlet acting insane is an inconvenience because it is hard to decipher what was sincere or madness. Shakespeare does not seem to have a high opinion of women, while writing Hamlet, considering how Hamlet holds deep bitterness toward his mother and Ophelia for not having a backbone and allowing themselves to be pawns in the game Claudius and he are playing. Saying this, Hamlet’s behavior towards Ophelia is crude, rough, and full of anger. Despite Hamlet’s harsh treatment towards Ophelia, he really did love her, but because she was not his main focus, the

“...Doubt truth to be a liar;/ But never doubt I love./ O dear Ophelia...I love thee best, O most best, believe it” (2.2.118-121). This quote comes from a letter written by Hamlet to Ophelia before learning of the deceit circling his home. He tells her he will always love her no matter the circumstance and at the time this letter was written, there was no need for deceit because no deception was occuring (Hamlets 1). This was one of the many letters Hamlet wrote and it can clearly be seen that Hamlet did indeed love her, but others can argue it was just a meaningless lust-filled relationship (Rosenburg 383). Had this just been a fling with a common girl, Hamlet would not have felt the need to make sure she was no longer a distraction and make her weary of