"I shall obey, my lord."

In today's world, society would probably be passionately enraged by Hamlet's harsh treatment of Ophelia, however in the day of Shakespeare, men were misogynist and women were treated with no more respect than that of a measly flea. The text of Hamlet gives wonderful primary source material on the construction of women during the period.

When Hamlet violently abuses Ophelia he doesn't even think of the emotional disaster he has caused her. This is the pattern of thought that nests in the minds of the men in that period. The females of Shakepeare's time were raised to accept their position in society and be obedient. An example of Ophelia's obedience occurs when Polonius demands, "What is between you? Give me the truth." Then Ophelia obediently replies, "He hath, my lord, of late made many tenders/ Of his affection to me"(1.3.103-105). Polonius demands information about her relationship with Hamlet. Ophelia obediently replies and exposes personal details of her private affairs with the prince Hamlet. After, Polonius orders her to put a stop to any further communication with Hamlet, like a servant she replies, "I shall obey, my lord"(1.3.141). The feelings of women, in that time, were not considered.

Hamlet's treatment of Ophelia is truly harsh, however it is very reasonable considering the time and culture that it took place during.