In William Shakespeare's play “Hamlet”, It is indisputable that the relationships of the characters to one another can be seen in different perspectives. In my opinion, I think that Ophelia and Hamlet are truly in love. There are several passagedsthroughout the play that proves the love between Hamlet and Ophelia. When Ophelia's father, Polonius was discussing with Ophelia in regards to her relationship with Hamlet and his sanity, Ophelia says “He hath, my lord, of late made many tenders of his affection to me.” (I.iii. 99-100). As loyal as Ophelia is to her father, she is willing to stand up for Hamlet. Not only does this prove Hamlets love to Ophelia, but the risk itself in standing up to Hamlet to her father shows her love towards Hamlet too. In the nunnery scene. As the play continues we learn more and more about the relationship between the two. We learn that Hamlet is looking out for Ophelia by trying to keep her out of harms way. "Get thee to a nunnery. Why, wouldst thou be a breeder of sinners" (III. i.121-122). Not only does this passage shows that Hamlet and Ophelia may of had sexual intercourse or intended on having it (Showing true love), but it suggests that Hamlet is trying to keep Ophelia away from future problems.. Prior to this, Hamlet says during his soliloquy, “The fair Ophelia! Nymph, in thy orisons be all my sins remember'd." (III.i.89-90). Hamlet asks for Ophelia's forgiveness for what has happened already and for future events. He also mentions Nymphs. They are generally regarded as divine spirits who animate nature, and are usually depicted as beautiful, young nubile maidens who love to dance and sing. There are several folk tales regarding Nymphs, such as “Dryope and The Nymphs”. It is a little unclear whether or not he is calling Ophelia a nymph, but if he is, he is correlating Ophelia to this beautiful, young maiden who loves to sing. (which sounds like Ophelia to me). Also, the fact that he asks for Ophelia's forgiveness when he is alone shows that he is truly sincere and honest about having her forgiveness. If Ophelia was on stage at the time he said that, one could argue that he was not sincere or honest and that he was truly, pretending. When Ophelia returns Hamlets love letters and poems back to Hamlet, one can notice that Ophelia saw Hamlets love through the letters. “and with them words of so sweet breath composed as made the things more rich.” (III.i.98-99). We see that she really takes the letters to heart not only because of what she says to Hamlet, but the way she says it. It was in a poetic tone. Why talk poetically to someone you don't love? All in all, Ophelia and Hamlet are in love. Trust me..
Response to Rico
When you said Hamlet wants Ophelia to go to the nunnery not only to protect her, but to also so that she is not affected by his actions. I really didn't look at it that way. I thought it was more of what was going to happen to Ophelia in general. You pointed out that he wanted to protect her from his future actions and any problems he may create. Now that I think of it this way, I can see where exactly you are coming from. His plot to kill Claudius etc.. I can see why he wouldn't want her to be there for when it happens.
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