The Tragic Flaw of Polonius

In Hamlet we see diverse characters who can be seen as having tragic flaws. Polonius, the

loyal advisor to the king has a tragic flaw. This is his loyalty to the state and more specifically the

king. Polonius s characteristic of loyalty warrants a flaw given that it leads to his tragic death. In

using Aristotles interpretation of a tragedy, Polonius s loyalty is also tragic. The audience worries

that they may have the same fate and are also sympathetic of Polonius since loyalty is usually a

positive attribute. This play is an exception since loyalty is given to a corrupt king and state.

Before Laertes travels back to school he receives advice from his father, Polonius. He

appears to be a caring father by first saying, Take each man s censure, but reserve thy

judgment (Hamlet, I , III, 69). Following this Polonius orders, Costly thy habit as thy purse can

buy, but not expressed in fancy; rich, not gaudy. For thy apparel oft proclaims the man. (Hamlet,

I , III, 70-72). This comment suggests that Polonius is greatly concerned with how Laertes

appears. It indicates that Polonius is worried about how the appearance of his son will make him

look in the eyes of the state and king.

Shortly after Laertes leaves for school, Polonius sends Renaldo, a friend of Laertes, to spy

on him. Polonius wants to keep a close eye on his son. But for what reason? Some may argue that

he is a caring father but this is unlike Polonius s character. Polonius is a politician, as we have

seen; he advises his son to not look gaudy and rich. A much more likely reason would be that

Polonius doesn t want his image to crumble by his son acting badly. Renaldo is sent to protect

Polonius s image through the eyes of the state and king.

In the case of Polonius s daughter Ophelia, Polonius demonstrates his loyalty to the state

with her also. Following Ophelia s explanation of her relationship with Hamlet, Polonius advises,

This must be known; which, being kept close, might move. More grief to hide than hate to utter

love (Hamlet, II , I, 115-116). The phrase hate to utter love gives the impression that Claudius

would hate to hear that Ophelia has a relationship with Hamlet. Polonius would prefer no

relationship so that he can stay on the good side of the king. If Hamlet and Ophelia married,

Polonius stature would be elevated. If he were to stay distant he might appear ambitious by

possibly attaining success through his daughter.

One event that is unavoidable is the death of Polonius himself. Upon hearing the coming

of Hamlet, Polonius hides behind a curtain. After highly emotional discussion between the queen

Gertrude and her son Hamlet, Polonius answers the queen s cry by hollering, What, ho!

help! (Hamlet, III , IV, 24). In overhearing from behind the curtain, the emotional state of

Hamlet, Polonius would have been more sane to act differently. His dedication to the state

impulsively causes him to answer the call which ultimately leads to his demise.

Polonius appears to have a strong desire to appear in good standing by the state and king.

Why did Shakespeare implement this characteristic? Polonius represents slyness and corruption.

He controls his children for his benefit and spies on his daughter and the queen. By implementing

these characteristics Shakespeare reinforces the malignity of the state. Polonius has to be expelled

in order for the state to be cleansed.

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