Question

Sc. 3, Lines 100–113: What point does Polonius want to make through his play on the word tender? What is the tone of his comments to Ophelia? How does this tone affect the audience’s view of Hamlet? Explain. How does this passage lend to the developing view of Polonius?

Answer 1

This excerpt is from 'The Hamlet'.

Explanation:

Ophelia says that Hamlet has made sincere proclamations of his love for her. Polonius answers, Tender yourself more dearly. Polonius means Ophelia should be more careful and judge to whom she has to give her affection.

Shakespeare uses humor in this scene but the humor is subtle as it describes the conflict between Ophelia and her father.

The tone creates despair and disgust among the readers. The story is about her love for Hamlet and loyalty to her father.

Polonius depicts Hamlet as unreliable and to have intentions that are not noble.