Act I Scene III Part 2 Summary Polonius

Act I, Scene III, Part 2 Summary: ● ● Polonius questions Ophelia about her relationship with Hamlet. She admits that Hamlet has been affectionate towards her recently. Polonius compares her to an innocent child for not knowing the ways of the world and what Hamlet’s true intentions are. Ophelia says that she will obey Polonius. Relationship Development: ● ● ● Hamlet - Ophelia believes that Hamlet shows affection towards her while Polonius thinks Hamlet’s relationship with Ophelia cannot last. Polonius - Polonius is skeptical of Hamlet’s intentions. He looks down on Ophelia believing that she is foolish and inexperienced. Ophelia - She has caught the eye of Hamlet but is thought a fool by Polonius. Rhetorical Analysis Quotation: “think yourself a baby; That you have ta’en these tenders for true pay, which are not sterling, ” (I. iii. 104 -107). Device: Metaphor Analysis: Here, Polonius calls Hamlet’s affection towards Ophelia tenders or coins. He compares fake coins to Hamlet’s alleged fake love in order to protect his daughter proving that Polonius does truly care about Ophelia and want to keep her safe. Quotation: “Ophelia, do not believe his vows, for they are brokers, not of that dye which their investments show… Breathing like sanctified and pious bawds, The better to beguile. ” (I. iii. 136 -139). Device: Diatribe Analysis: Shakespeare uses this diatribe to reveal Polonuis’ skeptical eye towards Hamlet’s intentions, revealing his disapproving feelings towards Hamlet. The audience also sees that Polonius often lectures his sister Ophelia, revealing their dominant and submissive relationship.