Ophelia and Hamlet in The Tragedy of Hamlet Essay

Ophelia and Hamlet In 1600, William Shakespeare composed what is considered the greatest tragedy of all time, Hamlet, the tragedy of the Prince of Denmark. His masterpiece forever redefined what tragedy should be. Critics have analyzed it word for word for nearly four hundred years, with each generation appreciating Hamlet in its own way. While Hamlet conforms, without a doubt, to Aristotles definition of a tragedy, one question still lingers. Did Shakespeare intend for the reader or viewer of Hamlet to feel greater sympathy for Hamlet, or for Ophelia, Hamlets lover? Both characters tug at the heartstrings throughout the play, but it is clear that the tragedy of the Prince of Denmark is a misrepresentation of Shakespeares true†¦show more content†¦It seems clear that Ophelia, in her madness, knows what others may be. She has become enlightened in her insanity. Unfortunately, because of her suicide, Ophelia is never given the chance to know what she herself might have been. Clearly though, Ophe lia does change greatly from act 1 to act 4. She transforms from a simple and innocent young girl into a mad, unsettled and knowing woman. What brings on these changes in Ophelia? One significant cause is the aforementioned attempted education by Ophelias brother, Laertes. When Laertes gives his brotherly advise to Ophelia, in act 1, scene 3, he speaks of more that just Hamlets love for Ophelia. Laertes warns Ophelia that Hamlet is toying with her affection in lines 14-18: ... Perhaps he loves you now, And now no soil nor cautel doth besmirch The virtue of his will, but you must fear, His greatness weighed, his will is not his own, or he himself is subject to his birth. (1.3.14-18) According to Laertes, Hamlet could not possibly love Ophelia because his is a prince and Ophelia a mere maid. Hamlet is bound by his regency to love and marry a princess of equal rank and stature. In lines 30-33, Laertes preaches the importance of Ophelias chastity: If with too credent ear you list his songs, Or lose your heart, or your chaste treasure open To his unmustered importunity. Fear it, Ophelia, fear it, my dearShow MoreRelatedThe Tragedy of Ophelia in Hamlet Essay945 Words   |  4 PagesThe Tragedy of Ophelia in Hamlet    Sweet and innocent, faithful and obedient, Ophelia is the truly tragic figure in William Shakespeares Hamlet. Her nature invites us to pity her misfortune caused not by any of her own self-initiated deeds or strategies(Lidz 138). 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