Pg. 830 : Question #4

Both Laertes's and Polonius's objections to Ophelia's relationship with Hamlet are based upon Hamlet himself. He is the proper heir to the throne and so they question whether his feelings are real and if his intentions are honorable. They are both looking out for Ophelia and don't want her to be stuck in a relationship/marriage where she is miserable and doesn't have true love. When Laertes's talks to Ophelia he seems to be giving her brotherly advice, unlike Polonius who seems to be commanding her with the expectations of her compliance. Thus, i would say Laertes argument is more persuasive and fair. But it is clear that both of them plan on trying to control her. Both Laertes and Polonius view Ophelia and women in general as subordinate beings and they feel entitled to have control and power over them. Class or station function in their arguments because although both Laertes and Polonius themselves are of a higher class, they argue that Hamlet's status is what makes him possibly untrustworthy.