Sc. 3, Lines 100–113: What point does Polonius want to make through his play on the word tender? What is the tone of his comments to Ophelia? How does this tone affect the audience’s view of Hamlet? Explain. How does this passage lend to the developing view of Polonius?

This excerpt is from 'The Hamlet'.

Explanation:

Ophelia says that Hamlet has made sincere proclamations of his love for her. Polonius answers, Tender yourself more dearly. Polonius means Ophelia should be more careful and judge to whom she has to give her affection.

Shakespeare uses humor in this scene but the humor is subtle as it describes the conflict between Ophelia and her father.

The tone creates despair and disgust among the readers. The story is about her love for Hamlet and loyalty to her father.

Polonius depicts Hamlet as unreliable and to have intentions that are not noble.

Esquivel's purpose in writing this essay is to share her insights into the cultural revolution that began in the 1960s along with its effects on society. She wants to inform and entertain the reader. Her message or theme involves the notion of a "New Man," by which she means a new human, not just male but female as well. She envisions a world where there will be balance in all aspects of our lives, concern for the environment, and respect for heritage. What is valued in this new society will not be just public recognition and monetary compensation but small acts and spirituality too. Esquivel believes it will begin with the "reclaiming of our rituals and ceremonies and the establishment of a new relationship with the land and the planet, with everything sacred. . . . It is there, around the hearth, where the New Man will appear, as the fruit of a common effort."