A complicated character Polonius A complicated character

“Though this be madness, yet there is method in’t.” What’s so confusing? Polonius presents himself in a few different ways. Many times his speeches or actions make him appear as if to be a foolish old man “Affection? Pooh! You speak like a green girl”, but, many times there is some depth to what he says. “Though this be madness, yet there is method in’t.” (II.ii.222-223) “This above all: to thine own self be true”. (I.iii.53)

What depth? Upper Class Lower Class VS.

Where is their class distinction? Polonius realizes that Hamlet can not fall in love with Ophelia because of the differences in their class rank. Hamlet is the son of the King. He is a distinguished member of the royal family. On the other hand, Ophelia is a commoner. The fact that she is the daughter of the king’s advisor is not enough, Hamlet can only marry another member of a royal family.

“Before You visit him, to make inquire Of his behaviour.”(II,I,4-5) But where is he funny? At times, what Polonius says is actually good advice “Give thy thoughts no tongue.”(I,iii,63) However, at other times, he is simply there to provide comic relief for the play. “Before You visit him, to make inquire Of his behaviour.”(II,I,4-5) When Polonious made such a big deal about checking up on his son, I know I laughed! “O, I am slain!” I also think it’s funny that he feels he needs to announce he was slain, instead of just asking for help!

So, is he important? Overall, Polonius is a vital character in the story. Many of his comments are wise and need to be said, but it is more enjoyable to hear them from someone who can also be very funny at times.

THE END By: Dassie Schabes