Polonius on His Daughter Ophelia: A Filial Precaution in Shakespeare’s Hamlet

One of the most intriguing subplots in William Shakespeare’s Hamlet revolves around the filial relationship between Polonius and his daughter Ophelia. Polonius, the Lord Chamberlain of Denmark and a father of many burdens, is deeply concerned about his daughter's safety. This article delves into Polonius’ opinion of his daughter in the play, particularly the advice he gives her regarding her interactions with Hamlet.

The Context: Polonius’ Concerns

In the opening acts of Hamlet, we are introduced to a Denmark riddled with political and personal turmoil. As the Lord Chamberlain, Polonius holds a position of power and influence in the Danish court. However, his actions and words often reflect a mix of self-interest, preoccupation with social status, and a genuine concern for his loved ones. Central to these concerns is his daughter Ophelia, whom he views as a symbol of his legacy and a prize in the political and social spheres.

Advice and Caution from Polonius

Direct and Cautionary Warnings

Polonius is notably stern in his advice to Ophelia. In Act I, scene III, Polonius delivers a string of wise yet protective counsel to Ophelia, encapsulating his concerns in the oft-quoted lines:

Get thee to a nunnery. Farewell! I must leave thee. A flood of letters encompass thee about, Like pushy pursuers. I do know this young mad prince; And, O, he is mad, he is mad, mother! (I.iii.140-144)

These lines are a clear indication of Polonius' belief that Hamlet is a dangerous and unstable individual. He warns Ophelia not to trust Hamlet, expressing the hope that she will avoid becoming his object of desire—a prospect Polonius believes could lead to disgrace and even illegitimacy.

Reaffirming the Father's Authority

Polonius’ cautionary advice is not just a personal plea but an assertion of his authority as a father. This is evident in his declaration, “Do not, my dearest daughter, trust any Gentleman... By heaven, placed a little sky above our reachable evils, we may still have sorrow” (I.iii.112-122). Here, Polonius points out the inherent dangers of the world, urging Ophelia to remain vigilant and not place her trust in men, especially those of noble birth, like Hamlet.

The fear of illegitimacy, as expressed in the statement, “Do not, my most lovely daughter, — Geese and ducks are the_OFFSET_ of geese. But he that hath the Zigzag of the young Theseus, and yet in triumph is appertained with a mad and overhasty heart to thine O’ertrading ears, must by our eyes ... Be rejected.” (I.iii.137-144), is central to Polonius’ concerns. He does not want his daughter to become involved in a situation that could tarnish her reputation and the family’s social standing.

The Psychological Insight of Polonius

Polonius’ behavior and words in the play reflect a deeper psychological state. His constant warnings and desire to control Ophelia’s interactions with Hamlet can be seen as a form of possessiveness and insecurity. He sees Ophelia as an extension of his own dignity and status, and thus, he is determined to protect her from any potential threats. Polonius is also acutely aware of the political ramifications of his actions, as the actions of his daughter could impact the entire family and their standing in the kingdom.

Conclusion: A Father’s Dilemma

In Hamlet, Polonius’ relationship with Ophelia serves as a reflection of the complex dynamics of power, inheritance, and familial duty. Polonius’ actions and words, while rooted in sincere paternal instinct, also serve a larger narrative purpose within the play. His cautionary advice to Ophelia, while protective, also serve to foreshadow the impending tragedy that unfolds in the Danish court.

By examining Polonius’ opinion of his daughter Ophelia, we can gain a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by fathers in Shakespeare’s plays and, more broadly, in literature. Polonius’ efforts to safeguard his daughter’s reputation and honor, despite the human cost, underscore the universal themes of fatherly love, manipulation of power, and the unyielding nature of fate.

Keywords: Polonius, Ophelia, Hamlet, Shakespeare, Filial Advice