Hamlet 2

          The family circuit of Polonius, Laertes, and Ophelia seem to be an overall healthy and supportive one. Both Polonius and Laertes give wise advice to others in the family in a seemingly genuine manner. Laertes has Ophelia's best interests in mind. He worries she be lost in love for Hamlet, without considering his restricting position as Prince of Denmark: "Perhaps he loves you now, / And now no soil or cautel doth besmirch / The virtue of his will; but you must fear, / His greatness is weighed, his will is not his own" (I.iii. 17-20). His tone is deeply concerned and caring, as a brother should be when giving advice about risky love. Polonius gives similar sincere parental advice to Laertes as he leaves for France. The advice is general but useful, including wise considerations such as, "Give every man thy ear, but few thy voice" (74). Both instances of advice are considerate and given only for the receiver to go about their lives with the most success. This normal portrayal of family love greatly contrasts the relationship between Hamlet, Claudius, and Gertrude. The royal family is anything but natural, and the tension between each member causes great discomfort.