Hamlet

How does Laertes describe Hamlet’s affection in lines 6–11? How does Laertes tell Ophelia to react to Hamlet’s affection?

How does Laertes describe Hamlet’s affection in lines 6–11? How does Laertes tell Ophelia to react to Hamlet’s affection?

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The description is one of fleeting passion like the flowers of spring that come into bloom with vigor but then soon fade. Flowers are sex organs. Laertes here is being cagey and protective with his language. He intimates that Hamlet is enlarging his lustful toy with blood. The word blood in "Hamlet" most often refers to passions and emotions particularly when referred to as "hot" as opposed to cool reason. Laertes for quite a few lines gets very graphic as to what Hamlet wants from Ophelia: her chaste treasure. He tells her to stay clear of the "shot and danger" ( a marvelous hendiadys!) of desire. Laertes is using a military metaphor that Hamlet's shot would be the equivalent of an exploding cannon ball on Ophelia. Hamlet's future is not guided by his love and lust. As the prince of Denmark, marriage is a political tool and he must marry as the political winds dictate which would leave Ophelia pregnant and branded a whore.