Hamlet and Polonius are two distinct characters in William Shakespeare's play, Hamlet, and they differ in various aspects. Here are some of the key differences between the two:
1. Age: Polonius is an older character, while Hamlet is a young prince. Polonius is portrayed as a wise and experienced advisor to the king, while Hamlet is depicted as a young and impulsive individual.
2. Social status: Polonius is a lord and a high-ranking courtier in the Danish court. He holds a position of power and influence, which is evident from his role as an advisor to the king. On the other hand, Hamlet is the prince of Denmark and the heir to the throne. He has a higher social standing and is expected to take on significant responsibilities.
3. Personality: Polonius is known for his long-winded and verbose speeches. He often speaks in a convoluted manner, using excessive words and phrases. This verbosity often leads to his inability to communicate concisely and directly. Hamlet, on the other hand, is more introspective and thoughtful. He has a tendency to contemplate deeply on philosophical matters and question his own existence.
4. Relationship with others: Polonius is a father figure to Laertes and Ophelia. He is overprotective of his children and often meddles in their affairs. He gives lengthy speeches to guide and advise them on how to behave and make decisions. Hamlet has a complicated relationship with his father, King Hamlet, who has been murdered by Claudius, his uncle. This event sets off a chain of events, leading to Hamlet's quest for revenge.
5. Role in the plot: Polonius serves as a plot device in the play. He is often used to advance the plot, provide information, or create comedic moments. On the other hand, Hamlet is the protagonist and central character of the play. The entire story revolves around his journey towards avenging his father's death.
While both Polonius and Hamlet play significant roles in the play, they have distinct characteristics and represent different aspects of the story.
Hamlet Vs Polonius
1 answer
1 answer