#2

  Shakespeare's Hamlet is written during a time in which women are seen as mere property.  Women are looked  at as ways to rise in status and bear children.  This is why it is surprising when Polonius, father to Ophelia says, "Marry I will teach you  think yourself a baby/ That you have ta'en these tenders for true pay,/ Which are not sterling.  Tender yourself more dearly"  (I.III.114-116).  Polonius essentially tells Ophelia that she must value herself more highly and not succumb to the supple entreaties of Hamlet.  Hamlet is a prince, he is heir to the throne of Denmark.  During this time period it would be customary for any parent to want his daughter to be the object of the crowned prince's affections.  Yet Polonius does the exact object of what is expected.  His view of how his daughter should act is very modern.  He feels that she should prize herself and her love very highly.  She should make herself the diamond whose price is so high that not all can buy it.  Another way to look at the way to look at Polonius's words is that he is trying to protect his daughter.  Later on he says that she should hear Hamlet's word as those of a young man in temporary passion.  He does not want her to give her maidenhood and passions to a man who might just be a temporary lover or one who only wants her honor.   Polonius's words may also have a third meaning.  He may see a flaw within Hamlet that he does not want his daughter to be associated with.  If this is the case Polonius's statement makes complete sense for the time period.  No father would want to marry his daughter off to someone who might have a bad reputation.   Polonius's view speaks of the type of father he is.  He is protective of Ophelia and does not want harm to come to her.  He values her so much that no man, not even the future king of Denmark is good enough for her. This type of fatherly love is admirable.