He was just displaying his fatherly love, what any father would do for their children. He knew of their difference in social status, and thought Hamlet must only be trifling with Ophelia. However he was only concerned about his social status and reputation. He valued what others thought and didn 't care about the feelings of Ophelia. Polonius only cares about Ophelia for his own goals, ambitions and standing. This is why he didn 't trust Hamlet he believed she was being fooled and he wouldn 't gain anything from their love. This contrasts the way Laertes viewed Ophelia, in the scene that features a conversation between Ophelia, Laertes and Polonius, both of them concerning Hamlet and Ophelia 's relationship with Hamlet. It is clear from the warning that Laertes gives Ophelia, and her response to it, that Ophelia has a deep respect for Laertes that is built on love and a good relationship. He counsels her to be wary of Hamlet and of getting too close, as he warns her of the potential consequences of becoming intimate with him, "Fear it, Ophelia, fear it, my dear sister, And keep you in the rear of your affection, Out of the shot and danger of desire." (Act 1, Scene 3, Lines 33-35) While Polonius conversation with her has a tone of much anger and disappointment for her actions. Instead of a gentle, caring approach he tells her bluntly that if she is not careful …show more content…
His hate was fueled by the murder of his father and his bewildered sister 's death. With nothing left to lose anymore Laertes is confident in obtaining revenge for his deceased family no matter the costs. Ironically Laertes enlisted the help of Hamlet 's father 's killer to exact revenge. He is torn whether to achieve this in a honorable duel or like Claudius in a very devious and treacherous way. His impulsive reactions led by anger are similar to Hamlet 's motives, this fact that both are alike and are fueled by virtually the same thing makes their struggle for power a lot more impact than other conflicts. When Hamlet apologizes for the death of Polonius in the beginning of their duel Laertes accepts the apology to seem superficial, and so no one will suspect of the treacherous deed he will commit. However he finds it within himself to forgive Hamlet after the death of Gertrude and both duelers have succumbed to mortal mounds when he says, "He is justly served; It is a poison temper 'd by himself. Exchange forgiveness with me, noble Hamlet: Mine and my father 's death come not upon thee." (Act 5, Scene 2, Lines 322-325) He forgives Hamlet, but only when it is too late when they are seconds away from death. Power and revenge led to Laertes