... treasure close" (I, iii, 30-31), since it is her most prized virtue as a woman. Laertes and Polonius instruct Ophelia's relationships because they view women as sexual objects that need guidance. A young woman's reputation is extremely fragile. It was thought that if men did not control women, then women ... lord" (I, iii, 136). Women were constantly seen as instruments in the city of Elsinore, never defending themselves. Ophelia reflects the nature of woman in a patriarchal society, demonstrating how females are hugely influenced by the men in their lives. Ophelia does not even realize ...

• Word Count: 1649
• Approx Pages: 7
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

... , is usually known as a very talented actress. However, in this final scene of Hamlet she just doesn't hit the mark. She makes Gertrude seem to be a simple, even half-witted woman. The way she sits on her throne, oblivious to what is going on, is bothering. With the recent death of Laertes" father, Gertrude should have at least have had some ... from his own period" (Denby 768). Zeffirelli corrects this mistake, but it doesn't help the scene become any better. Hamlet and Laertes are now in battle with two huge, heavy medieval swords. They struggle with them, and they fall all over the se...

• Word Count: 1208
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: High School