How Does Shakespeare Present Polonius Relationship In Hamlet

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One recurring theme in Shakespeare’s, Hamlet, is family and the relationships or bonds within those families. It would seem as though all characters in Hamlet have negative relationships with their kin, however, one family actually shares a strong bond, though it is hard to detect as it is camouflaged by an unfavourable appearance. This deceivingly strong bond can be found between Polonius and his two children, Laertes and Ophelia. Though there is some tension between Polonius and his children, there are a few interactions between him and his children that reveal that, despite seeming only like a ruthless politician, he does possess characteristics which allow him to be considered an adequate father.

In the first act, Polonius lectures Ophelia on her relationship with Hamlet, ultimately requesting that she no longer “slander any moment leisure” (1.2.133) on him. Although he does mention that he fears her actions would “tender me a fool”, it appears as though he is looking out for Ophelia’s best interest. This interaction between Ophelia and Polonius results in Ophelia granting her father’s desires, exhibiting the enormous amount of trust she instills in her father. …show more content…

After scolding Laertes for not yet boarding the ship, Polonius reminds him of a few rules of life. The first piece of advice is to “Look thou character. Give thy thoughts no tongue” (1.3.59). He also reminds Laertes to “Be thou familiar but by no means vulgar” (1.3.61). Though these are only a few examples of advice given to Laertes by Polonius, they appear to be developing out of the respect and admiration Polonius has for his son and demonstrate the type of relationship found between the two

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