HW #4: Page 830

What is the basis for both Laertes's and Polonius's objections to Ophelia's relationship with Hamlet? Which of their arguments seems most (and least) persuasive or fair? What does their treatment of Ophelia in act I, scene iii reveal about their motivations? What does it suggests about their attitude toward Ophelia and toward women in general? How does class or station function in their arguments?

First, it is important to take into consideration the relationship between Laertes and Ophelia, and that they are brother and sister.  Just as any protective brother would do, myself included, a brother wants to protect a sister from the true intentions of a man.  So, when the issue about Hamlet is addressed to Ophelia from her brother (Laertes) and her father ( Polonius), the issue of male hormones and royalty obligations are brought up.  First, Laertes says to his sister that because Hamlet is a man who is "on the prowl", he may tell Ophelia that he loves her, but that his love is temporary and to "Hold it a fashion and a toy in blood...".  Laertes is telling Ophelia that this whole "love" thing between Hamlet and his sister is just a big flirtation.  Moreover, Laertes says "sweet, not lasting" when referring to the "love".  By this, he means that love is cute a petty but that it wont last "more than a minute".  He also warns his sister because he says that since Hamlet is royalty, he needs to find a spouse.  So, he is suggesting that Hamlet's love for Ophelia is also because he has obligations to uphold as royalty.  Lastly, Laertes says that Ophelia should watch out and not lose her virginity to Hamlet because he is full of lust.  Next, comes Polonius.  Right after Laertes leaves, he asks his daughter "what were you talking about".  Polonius then makes the argument that many people have been warning him about Ophelia and Hamlet and Polonius tells her that as his daughter, she should be restricted.  He then insults Ophelia by saying you're a fool for falling for him, he is just trying to have some fun.  I think that Laertes has a better and more personal argument.  This shows that think that women are items to be used for sex, and class plays into their arguments because they both make the claim that Hamlet has an obligation, as royalty, to find a wife.