How Does Laertes Treat Ophelia

In a world controlled by misogynistic men, two women, Gertrude and Ophelia find themselves in a plot written by a man, primarily about men, and their reactions reveal an interesting variety of potential interactions with patriarchy. In Hamlet, the reader encounters two main female characters. Though each try to gain agency, we find that Laertes and Polonius treat Ophelia as an inert instrument for their own ambition. Simultaneously, Hamlet and the Ghost try to manage Gertrude’s behavior by denying her autonomy and expressing a (posthumous) ownership over her. In analyzing the play from Ophelia’s and Gertrude’s perspectives and how each differ from each other, a spectrum of female responses is revealed as potentials for women living in a male-dominated society. Early in the play, in Act I, scene iii, Laertes declares ownership over Ophelia. “It fits your wisdom so far to believe it. As he in his particular act and place May give his saying deed, which is no further Than the main voice of Denmark goes withal” (Shakespeare, 1.3.25-28). Laertes here attempts to deny to his sister autonomy. He, in his masculine privilege, has decided Hamlet’s intentions for Ophelia for her. He proposes a solution that presupposes Ophelia’s obedience and inertness. …show more content…
Gertrude is shaped by the patriarchy around her, and Hamlet lashes out against her as a response. “She married. O, most wicked speed, to post with such dexterity to incestuous sheets” (Shakespeare 1.2.157-9). Hamlet also attacks her in terms of her weak spirit and incapability of being alone. “frailty, thy name is woman” (Shakespeare 1.2.146)! In this situation, Hamlet is speaking to himself in a manipulative way of Gertrude, both criticizing her for re-marrying too quickly and for her unwillingness to remain a widow and properly mourn her husband’s