Discussion 4

Both Laertes and Polonius object to Ophelia's relationship with Hamlet because they are concerned with her well-being.  They perceive Hamlet as having gone mad.  Not only do they believe that Hamlet has gone mad, but they also believe that Hamlet's royal background will negatively affect Ophelia.  While they share similar objections, they expressions of these objections are different.  While Polonius is demanding, tedious, and condescending in his persuasion, Laertes is more kind and serves as a great brother.  Obviously, Laertes has a more respectful view of women in general, while Polonius's sexist notions suggest his condescending view of women.