Hamlet+1.3

3. Why is Laertes so opposed to Ophelia's marriage to Hamlet? He understands the poor relationship between him and the king, however, wouldn't it be a positive thing for his sister to become a part of royal blood? What other events have caused him to feel so strongly against Hamlet's character? Is Ophelia self-conscious about the fact that Hamlet supposedly wants to marry her even though she is not a princess? Will she actually obey her father's wishes?

6. It is clear that the characters, Laertus and Polonius, do not have a high opinion of Hamlet in the way they are talking about him to Ophelia. Laertes states, "For Hamlet, and the trifling of his favor, hold it a fashion and a toy in blood..." (1.3.6-7). Her brother obviously thinks that Hamlet is not genuine in his actions or in his love for Ophelia. He deeply feels that she should not marry the prince, for she is not a princess. Also, it is apparent that neither view their sister and daughter, Ophelia, in a positive light as well. Polonius states, "Marry, I will teach you. Think yourself a baby that you have ta'en these tenders for true pay which are not sterling" (1.3.114-116). He speaks to his daughter in a condescending way, feeling as though she will betray his wishes of her to avoid Hamelt anyway.

8. Laertes gives a very ambiguous description of his thoughts about the love between Hamlet and Ophelia. He states, "Forward, not permanent, sweet, not lasting, the perfume and suppliance of a minute, no more" (1.3.9-11). He claims that there is no true absolutness in the connection between them. He also describes a possible danger in her marriage to Hamlet abstractly. He warns, "be wary, then; best safety lies in fear. Youth to itself rebels, though none else near" (1.3.47-48). He does not concretely state what he believes what would happen to Ophelia if she were to follow her heart. Instead, he gives a broad warning about being especially cautious in the situation.