The Symbolism Of Ophelia s Hamlet - 1500 Words

Prescribed Question: How could the text be read and interpreted differently by two different readers? Text Analyzed: Shakespeare’s Hamlet Part of the Course to Which the Text Corresponds to: Part 4 Thesis: In Shakespeare’s tragedy, Hamlet, Ophelia’s role would be interpreted as a plot device by a modern English woman and as a victim by an Elizabethan woman. This would occur because of their understanding of the symbolism of Ophelia’s actions in madness, the context surrounding Hamlet’s view of her, and their characterization of Ophelia. Argument 1 Topic Sentence: The two readers would interpret the symbolism of Ophelia’s actions in madness differently according to their understanding of Elizabethan customs. Evidence/Analysis Summary: â€Å"There’s fennel for you, and columbines. There’s rue for you. And here’s some for me [†¦] I would give you some violets, but they all withered when my father died.† (IV:v:178-184) Modern woman: Surface interpretation- no concept of the flowers, which provide context for her purpose. This removes Ophelia’s depth as a character, and merely portrays her as crazy and a plot device to reunite the cast. Elizabethan woman: Would grasp the context, and understand the value of the flowers, and Ophelia’s understanding of the events at Elsinore. They would understand her role as being a victim of the evil in the court. Argument 2 Topic Sentence: Hamlet’s view of Ophelia would be interpreted differently because of the cultural contextShow MoreRelatedSymbolism And Theme Of Hamlet By William Shakespeare1341 Words   |  6 PagesHamlet s Symbolism and Theme The play Hamlet by William Shakespeare absolutely contains plenty of symbolism and themes. 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