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Polonius's Intentions In Hamlet

398 Words2 Pages

To be true to oneself and one's actions requires strength and determination. Realistically, being true to oneself and one’s actions is uncommon. One tends to hide oneself for as long as possible until the other person discovers the hidden secret. The concept of hiding oneself relates to a game of hide and seek; a person hides (their own self) for as long as they can, until the seeker finds what is being hidden. Hamlet, written by William Shakespeare, perfectly illustrates the game of hide and seek as Polonius, Claudius and Hamlet hide their true intentions/motives of their actions throughout the play. At the end of the play their true intentions/motives show, and the game ends. Polonius is the father figure; a man who is dedicated to his children, Ophelia and Laertes. Throughout the play, …show more content…

In result, his motives become corrupt and hidden. The game of hide and seek starts with Laertes, as Polonius seeks the truth of whether Laertes preserves the family’s honour as he studies in Paris. Polonius sends Reynaldo, his servant, to spy on Laertes and says “You shall do marvellous wisely good Reynaldo/ Before you visit him, to make inquiry of his behaviour” (II.I.1-4). Polonius advises Reynaldo to invent rumours about Laertes and his actions to see if they confirm his actual behaviour. Reynaldo’s friendliness and curiosity towards Laertes’s life disguises Polonius’ real motive regarding his son. Polonius’ nature of devious actions continues as he advises Ophelia to discontinue her relationship with Hamlet by saying “Tender yourself more dearly; Or - not to/ Crack the wind of the poor phrase, running it thus - you’ll tender me a fool” (I.III.107-9). Polonius

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