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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
A 5 page paper which examines how the way in which Ophelia is manipulated represents a destruction of innocence and how her death is the unfortunate consequence of everyone else’s chaotic and corrupted lives. Bibliography lists 3 sources.
Page Count:
5 pages (~225 words per page)
File: TG15_TGophinn.rtf
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
Polonius, sister Laertes and lover of Hamlet, was constantly being treated by the men in her life as a child who was incapable of thinking for herself, in keeping with
the assertive Elizabethan patriarchal tradition. There can be little doubt what Ophelias characterization is supposed to symbolize since her name is derived from the Greek word for "obedience."
Revered Shakespearean scholar Andrew Cecil Bradley observed that it is Ophelia, not Hamlet, who is the core of most of the plays dramatic action. He noted, "On this childlike
nature and on Ophelias inexperience everything depends" (155). It is Ophelias dependence on others, especially men, which defines her character. She becomes a pawn in a masculine power
game, for which she is emotionally ill-equipped to survive. The strain of being constantly manipulated destroys Ophelias insanity and ultimately leads her into a premature grave. From
her first introduction, Ophelias innocence is immediately evident, as Laertes and Polonius are constantly interpreting Hamlets amorous intentions for her. Finally, she is forced to admit, "I do not
know, my lord, what I should think" (I.iii.103). She is, understandably, confused by the conflicting signals the men in her life are sending her and because she has led
a sequestered life, Ophelia lacks sophistication when it comes to dealing with matters of the heart. Both Polonius and Laertes want to control her, and she is powerless to
stand up for herself. Polonius shamelessly mistreats his daughter with his complete disregard for her love for Hamlet. He has discouraged her from seeing her lover at every
opportunity, which she doesnt understand, but does obediently. Then, as a way of remaining in good standing with King Claudius, Polonius offers his daughters services to reveal whether or
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