Final answer:
Ophelia serves as a courtly lady in Shakespeare's play 'Hamlet,' but her purpose tragically evolves over the course of the play.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ophelia serves as a courtly lady in Shakespeare's play Hamlet. However, her purpose tragically evolves over the course of the play.
At the beginning, Ophelia is portrayed as a loyal and obedient daughter who follows the expectations of her father and brother.
As the story progresses, Ophelia's mental state deteriorates due to the conflicting demands of her father, brother, and lover, Hamlet.
Eventually, she becomes overwhelmed by the pressures placed upon her and tragically ends her own life.