Question

1. What impact does Hamlet's repeated command of Ophelia to go "to a nunnery" have on the meaning of this scene?

A. The repetition shows how much Hamlet now regrets having never given anything to Ophelia.
B. The repetition highlights the tense relationship that Hamlet and Ophelia have always had.
C. The repetition explains that Hamlet no longer finds Ophelia beautiful.
D. The repetition reinforces how much Hamlet now distrusts Ophelia.

Answer 1

B. The repetition highlights the tense relationship that Hamlet and Ophelia have always had.

Hamlet's repeated command of Ophelia to go "to a nunnery" in Act III, Scene i of the play shows the strained relationship between the two characters. This repetition emphasizes Hamlet's anger towards Ophelia and his desire to distance himself from her. The use of the word "nunnery" also carries a double meaning, suggesting both a convent and a brothel, which further complicates their relationship. Therefore, the repetition of this command reinforces the tension and unresolved issues between Hamlet and Ophelia.

~~~Harsha~~~