Hamlet by William Shakespeare | Act 1, Scene 3 Summary & Analysis

Summary

In Act 1, Scene 3 of Hamlet, Laertes advises his sister Ophelia to be cautious about her relationship with Prince Hamlet, warning that his status limits his choice of a wife. Their father, Polonius, later reinforces this warning, forbidding Ophelia from seeing Hamlet despite her belief in Hamlet's sincerity. The scene develops Laertes as a caring, practical brother and Ophelia as earnest but naive. Polonius, on the other hand, appears self-interested and politically motivated. This interaction advances the plot and highlights the social hierarchy and customs of Denmark.

Takeaways

• 📜 Laertes is preparing to depart for France and speaks with his sister Ophelia before leaving.
• 💌 Laertes promises to write to Ophelia often, emphasizing their close sibling bond.
• ⚠️ Laertes advises Ophelia not to get too involved with Hamlet, warning that his status may complicate their relationship.
• 👑 Laertes points out that Hamlet, as a prince, likely won't have the freedom to choose his own wife.
• 🛑 Ophelia promises to heed Laertes' advice, showing her respect for her brother's guidance.
• 👨‍👧 Polonius interrupts the conversation, questioning why Laertes hasn't left yet.
• 💔 After Laertes leaves, Polonius reiterates Laertes' warnings, advising Ophelia against trusting Hamlet.
• 🗣️ Ophelia defends Hamlet's love as sincere, but Polonius remains firm in his opposition.
• 🙅‍♀️ Polonius forbids Ophelia from seeing Hamlet, and Ophelia agrees to comply with her father's wishes.
• 🎭 This scene introduces key character dynamics, emphasizing Laertes' caring nature, Ophelia's innocence, and Polonius' political mindset.

Q & A

What is the primary topic of conversation between Laertes and Ophelia at the start of the scene?

Laertes and Ophelia discuss his upcoming trip to France, but Laertes quickly shifts the conversation to Ophelia's relationship with Hamlet.

What advice does Laertes give Ophelia about Hamlet?

Laertes advises Ophelia not to get too involved with Hamlet, warning her that Hamlet, as a prince, may not be able to choose his own wife and that her reputation could be at risk.

How does Ophelia respond to Laertes' advice about Hamlet?

Ophelia promises to take Laertes' advice to heart, showing her respect for her brother’s counsel.

What is Polonius’ role in this scene?

Polonius interrupts the conversation, surprised that Laertes hasn’t left yet. After Laertes departs, Polonius reiterates Laertes' warnings about Hamlet and forbids Ophelia from seeing him.

How does Ophelia feel about Hamlet's love based on her conversation with Polonius?

Ophelia believes that Hamlet’s expressions of love are sincere, but Polonius still forbids her from pursuing the relationship.

How does this scene contribute to the overall plot of the play?

The scene builds on character relationships and provides important backstory, especially regarding Ophelia and Hamlet's relationship, while also introducing family dynamics and societal norms.

What is revealed about Laertes' character in this scene?

Laertes is shown to be a caring, polite, and practical brother. His well-traveled experience suggests that he is familiar with the etiquette of the elite.

How is Ophelia characterized in this scene?

Ophelia is portrayed as young, inexperienced, and sincere. She genuinely loves Hamlet but is naïve about the possible risks and the darker aspects of his intentions.

What contrast is drawn between Laertes, Ophelia, and Polonius in this scene?

Laertes and Ophelia are shown as thoughtful and sincere, while Polonius appears more self-absorbed, politically minded, and concerned with controlling his children's actions.

What societal norms and expectations are highlighted in this scene?

The scene exposes the social customs and hierarchy of Denmark, particularly the limitations on personal choice in marriage for people of Hamlet's stature and the importance of reputation, especially for women like Ophelia.