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Shakespeare's "Hamlet" stands as a timeless exploration of human nature and societal dynamics, and within its intricate tapestry, the roles of women are notably portrayed through the characters of Gertrude and Ophelia. This essay delves into the nuanced depictions of these women, arguing that despite their elevated positions, both are marginalized figures, their lives intricately controlled by the decisions and influences of the male characters. By analyzing their submissive and obedient nature, we can glean insights into the societal constraints of the time, shedding light on the limited autonomy afforded to women in the Elizabethan era.
Gertrude, as the Queen of Denmark, occupies a position of authority and influence.
However, her character is marked by a stark contrast between her regal title and her submissive demeanor. In her relationship with Claudius, the prince's uncle and now her husband, Gertrude's agency is compromised. Claudius, in a moment that reveals the objectification of Gertrude, refers to her as "my crown, mine own ambition and my Queen." This phraseology not only underscores her role as a possession but also suggests that Gertrude is instrumentalized by Claudius as a means to secure the throne.
The hasty marriage to Claudius, occurring mere weeks after the death of her husband, King Hamlet, further underscores Gertrude's dependence on men.
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This swift union is indicative of a woman who, despite her regal status, lacks the autonomy to make decisions free from male influence. Hamlet's proclamation that he will "speak daggers to her, but use none" reflects his perception of Gertrude's vulnerability, seeing her as too weak to withstand even his words.
In essence, Gertrude emerges as a tragic figure, embodying the archetype of a woman unable to survive without a man, ultimately betraying her own family in the process.
Ophelia, in stark contrast to Gertrude, is introduced as an innocent and naive character. Her lack of experience in life is evident, and her purity is encapsulated in her genuine love for Hamlet. However, this purity becomes a double-edged sword as Ophelia's submissive nature becomes apparent in her relationships with her father Polonius and brother Laertes. Advised to fear Hamlet, Ophelia does not resist or question but instead hands over the metaphorical "key" of her memory to Laertes, symbolizing her submission to male authority.
Polonius, Ophelia's father, insults her and dismisses Hamlet's love, responding with disdain to her declaration that Hamlet "has of late made tenders of his affection." In response, Ophelia doesn't defend Hamlet or assert her own thoughts; instead, she replies, "I do not know, my lord, what I should think." This exchange highlights Ophelia's willingness to yield to the opinions and judgments of the men in her life, further emphasizing her lack of agency.
As the play unfolds and Hamlet's actions escalate, Ophelia's descent into madness becomes inevitable. With the deaths of Polonius and Laertes' departure to France, Ophelia finds herself isolated and without the support structures she depended on. Having relied on others throughout her life, she turns to madness, symbolizing the consequences of her lack of autonomy. Ophelia's ultimate act of suicide becomes a tragic manifestation of her inability to make independent decisions or shape her own destiny. In her death, Ophelia stands as a poignant example of a woman whose life was dictated by the actions and decisions of the men surrounding her.
The context in which "Hamlet" was written is crucial to understanding the portrayal of women in the play. In the Elizabethan era, societal norms dictated a rigid hierarchy, and women were often seen as subordinate to men. During this time, women were not even allowed to portray themselves on stage, emphasizing their perceived inferiority. The characters of Gertrude and Ophelia in "Hamlet" are reflective of these societal norms, existing at the mercy of the moods and decisions of the male characters.
Gertrude and Ophelia, despite their royal positions, serve as poignant portraits of the limitations placed on women during this era. They lack autonomy and are 'owned' by the men in their lives. The consequences of male conflict, such as death in Ophelia's case, demonstrate the dire outcomes for women when their agency is stripped away. Gertrude and Ophelia, therefore, become emblematic of the broader societal expectations and restrictions placed on women during Shakespeare's time.
In conclusion, the characters of Gertrude and Ophelia in Shakespeare's "Hamlet" offer a nuanced exploration of the marginalized status of women during the Elizabethan era. Despite their elevated positions, these women are relegated to roles defined by the decisions and influences of the male characters. Their submissive and obedient nature serves as a poignant reflection of the societal constraints that restricted women's agency during this time. The tragic fates of Gertrude and Ophelia underscore the consequences of a society where women were 'owned' by men and lacked the ability to control their own destinies.
Women's Subjugation in Shakespeare's "Hamlet". (2016, Jul 30). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/gertrude-and-ophelia-hamlet-essay
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