Final answer:
Polonius is killed by Hamlet, who mistakes him for Claudius. Whether he deserved it is subjective, and his death further complicates Hamlet's moral standing.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, Polonius is accidentally killed by Hamlet, who mistakes him for Claudius while Polonius is spying on Hamlet and his mother. As for whether Polonius deserved this fate is subjective; some may argue that his intrusive and manipulative behavior warranted some form of retribution, while others may contend that his death was disproportionate to his actions. This event significantly changes Hamlet, complicating his moral stance and burdening him with guilt, contributing further to his mental anguish and his perception of the corrupt nature of the court. Moreover, it propels the play's plot forward, leading to further tragic consequences.