Throughout time, allusions have been used to convey messages and give readers insight into the true feelings and emotions in a piece of literature by referencing events from another piece of work. Hamlet’s use of “Jephthah” from Judges 11:30–40 in the Bible as an allusion to Polonius' character, a scene that capitalizes on the use of allusions to shed light on Polonius' character. In the Bible, Jephthah makes a horrific vow to the Lord that he will sacrifice the first thing that comes out of his house if he successfully wins his battle. The first thing that walks through the door is Jephthah’s daughter, who greets him upon his return. Jephthah then says to his daughter, “‘Alas, my daughter! Thou hast brought me very low, and thou art one of them that trouble me, for I have opened my mouth unto the LORD, and I cannot go back” (Judges 11:35). …show more content…
This allusion to Jephthah implies that Polonius would be willing to sacrifice his daughter, Ophelia, for his ambitions and loyalty to the king. When Polonius says, “I have a daughter; I love passing well” (2.1.435–436), Hamlet responds by saying, “Nay follows not..." (2.1.437–439), basically laughing off Polonius' last words, further implying that Polonius’ would be willing to use his daughter for his gain. This repeated reference to Jephthah as a way to describe Polonius' treatment of Ophelia may show readers that Ponius treats his daughter as a tool for personal gain in getting close to the king. His actions in utilizing his daughter as a way to get to Prince Hamlet and see what’s driving him mad are similar to Jephatah’s actions of utilizing his daughter as a sacrifice in order to win a