Hamlet Act 3 Scene 1

Question

How does Polonius unwittingly prick the king's conscience?

Asked by Kaylee F #869780 on 2/5/2019 2:01 PM

Last updated by Aslan on 2/5/2019 5:23 PM

Answered by Aslan on 2/5/2019 5:23 PM

Polonius is telling Ophelia to put on a fake countenance in order to trick Hamlet.

We are oft to blame in this, 'Tis too much proved, that with devotion’s visage And pious action we do sugar o'er The devil himself.

Polonius knows how to be fake. He killed his own brother and pretends he is the rightful benevolent king. Polonius's speech hurts is conscience.

oh, ’tis too true! How smart a lash that speech doth give my conscience!