Purchase Solution

A Characterization of Ophelia

Not what you're looking for?

Ask Custom Question

A characterization of Ophelia from Shakespeare's "Hamlet". Includes direct quotations and in-depth analysis.

Purchase this Solution

Solution Preview

A Characterization of Ophelia

It is often said that love is the axis of all things in our universe. Fondness for another living being or material object can inspire any creature into fits of obsession or abandonment depending on the extent of the relationship. Without hesitation it can sneak upon the mortal soul and consume all elements of personality and rationality. Ophelia, a young maiden of Denmark, is a prime example of this heartbreaking sort of infatuation, for it gave her rapture beyond average comprehension and within the same breath stole her brilliant mind. An appropriate ending some might agree for the fictional character that has inspired artist for centuries and whom has been considered one of the most beloved, moving muses since her creation.
Other than her servants and nursemaid, Ophelia is publicly raised within a male dominated household. The only female influence coming from Queen Gertrude, whom Ophelia held in very high regard with the possibility that they might someday be joined by the holy bounds of marriage and officially united as family, "I hoped thou shouldst have been my Hamlet's wife; I thought thy bride-bed to have decked, sweet maid, and not have strewed thy grave" (Act 5. sc.1). It is apparent that Gertrude held a similar affection for Ophelia. It is clear that after meeting Ophelia the people whom have influenced her the most have helped shape her clever demeanor. Despite her intelligence and integrity she was still naive and sensitive to the world around her. Her ...

Purchase this Solution


Free BrainMass Quizzes
Who wrote it?

Students will match the literary work with the correct author. I have selected works which are often taught as part of a high school or college curriculum

Introduction to Myths

These five questions will test your basic knowledge about myths.

Homonyms

This quiz will help students learn more about homonyms. These words, in particular, are commonly misused by people because they sound the same, but have very different meanings from each other.

Reading Comprehension - “Why children as young as three are sent to boarding school in China”

Exercise your reading comprehension muscles! This quiz is intended to determine students' comprehension of the article “Why children as young as three are sent to boarding school in China” (found at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-24624427).

Understanding Rhetoric and Writing

This quiz will help students gain a deeper understanding about rhetoric and the context of writing.