Frailty Thy Name Is Woman Analysis

“Frailty thy name is woman” (1.2.150). This simple statement is a resounding declaration in the mind of the female reader. This statement is a one of equality, however, this equality is not one which women wish to achieve. Equality to frailty is the only equation which Shakespeare’s and our own society wishes to place women in. The female will never be placed on the other side of the equation to their male counterparts unless between them is a less than symbol. Throughout all of history, in every culture, women have been seen as inferior to their male counterparts. Pieces of literature are often reflections of the social and cultural issues that exist during the author’s lifetime. During Shakespeare’s time, the issue of feminism was no where …show more content…
There are two ends of the female stereotype spectrum. On one side there is the innocent, weak, and naive. This extreme is represented through the character of Ophelia. On the other end there is the belief that women are nothing but manipulative, selfish, and sexual creatures whom every man should avoid. This extreme is brought to life through the character of Gertrude. Although a feminism critique was most likely not the intent of the play, Hamlet, one can be made using the leading ladies of the play. Through Gertrude and Ophelia, Shakespeare, whether purposefully or accidentally, gave readers the opportunity to see the lifestyle forced upon the two women archetypes. Although the women represent different aspects of the oppression women encountered and continue to do so today, they have one thing in common. Both injustices against Ophelia and Gertrude are done with no true rationale. Feminism is an oppression and prejudice that is neither analytical nor logical yet has always been present and will always continue to be