How Does Shakespeare Use Polonius Speech To Laertes

In the ever changing world of literature, one play stands the test and that is William Shakespeare's Hamlet. This dramatic, thrilling, tragic play tells the story of a “young prince of Denmark, Hamlet, who is seeking vengeance for his father’s murder.” () The storyline itself is able to grasp the reader, and take them alongside Hamlet as he slowly takes down his enemies and uncovers the secrets, betrayal, and scheming nature of his family. Aside from the storyline, what makes this play great is the monologues, as well as dialogues between characters. Shakespeare incorporates an array of vivid imagery, metaphors, and exquisite vocabulary to make known the passion and heart behind every single character. Upon reading these speeches, the reader is able to catch a glimpse, feel what the character is speaking about with such enthusiasm. Although there are many speeches to choose from when trying to single one out in particular, Polonius gives a compelling speech to Laertes that include these techniques from Shakespeare, to assist while reading. To give a short background, Laertes, Polonius’ son is leaving Denmark and on a journey to France. Polonius catches Laertes just getting ready to leave and imparts a “blessing” on him in a 26 line speech.()

Many of the lines in the speech are relatable and have a sense of historical wisdom, as if they were said because someone had made mistakes and learned from them. In the last lines of his speech, the greatest advice Polonius, as well as Shakespeare gave was, “This above all: to thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man.”() This is wisdom that Shakespeare had that has stood the test of time, and is one of the reasons why his play is still valued and relevant in the world