ABSTRACT

Tompkins noted that Ophelia is a “creature” designed by men. In her first appearance in the play, she is questioned by her brother, Laertes, about Hamlet’s intention and urged not to have intimate relations with Hamlet. Later, after Laertes has left for Paris, Ophelia’s father asks her about Hamlet’s intentions and tells her to avoid Hamlet. Ophelia tells her father that she will obey.