Why US News and World Report Rankings Don’t Mean What You Think They Mean

Contributed by:Stacey Cunitz, Director of Blue Moon Educational Consulting Each year, US News and World Report (USNWR) releases its rankings of colleges, and everyone scrambles to figure out what they mean. On the face of it, they are purporting to tell us which colleges are the â€Å"best† colleges. However, when we take the time to unpack the methodology, what we find out is that, at best, the rankings simply reinforce the status quo. At worst, the rankings make us overlook some schools that are doing great work and might be the right fit for a particular student. USNWR has been ranking colleges since 1983. For that initial ranking, it relied solely on academic reputation, only adding statistical data in 1988. Nearly every year since then it has changed that methodology, which makes year to year comparisons difficult. However, each piece of its methodology remains flawed. Here, we will examine two of the factors that go into the rankings. Academic Reputation: 22.5% Back in 1983, 100% of the ranking was based on academic reputation. Now, it’s 22.5%. USNWR still claims that college presidents, provosts, and deans are â€Å"in a position to judge a school’s academic excellence.† The magazine also surveys counselors from high schools it has highly ranked who then rank colleges on a 5 point scale from â€Å"marginal† to â€Å"distinguished.† USNWR says that it asks participants to skip over schools that they don’t know enough about to rank. Why we’re not buying it: By USNWR's own admission, it is literally making up the data: â€Å"Schools that received less than a total of 10 ratings from high school counselors in this three-year period are not numerically ranked in this one factor but received an estimated high school counselor score for ranking purposes†¦Ã¢â‚¬  In other words, if they don’t have enough input, they estimate it. And what are those estimations based on? They don’t say. In addition, college presidents, deans, and provosts are busy paying attention to their own schools and are not familiar with the inner workings of other institutions. This part of the ranking, more than any other, reinforces the status quo and makes sure that a lesser known college will never rise above an older and more â€Å"venerable† institution no matter how superior the educational experience. Graduation and Retention Rate: 22.5% USNWR uses the six-year graduation rate to make up 80% of this part of the score, and the first year retention rate to make up the rest. They claim that strong figures indicate that the â€Å"school is apt to be [better] at offering the classes and services that students need to succeed.† Why we’re not buying it: While graduation rate and first year retention rate might speak to the services and classes the college is offering, they don’t take into consideration schools whose mission is one of access. Let’s take Penn State, for example, which is currently ranked at #52 in National Universities. First, we might ask ourselves whether it is in the right category. At Penn State’s main campus, just over 50% of the students come from Pennsylvania. Compare that to University of Pennsylvania which at #8 draws only 18% of students from Pennsylvania. Is Penn State really â€Å"National?† Also, Penn State is public. University of Pennsylvania is private. In fact, not one of the top 20 National Universities is a public school, and public schools have a mission of access: they are charged with educating students in their state. Some states make laws about the percentage of students a college can take from out of state. Certainly private schools h ave no such obligations and, in fact, often want to boast that they have students from all 50 states and many countries as well. Think about this: these numbers might be as much a function of input as of output. In other words, a lower graduation or retention rate might reflect the student body and their financial and/or academic struggles, as much as it reflects the quality of the experience on campus. So assuming that you, a senior in high school, are financially secure and academically prepared, you might not have any trouble graduating in four years. And there is a judgment involved in the notion that you might prefer to go to school with other students who are financially secure and have no academic struggles. Perhaps you do prefer it. But it is not inherently better. And USNWR is making that decision for you. Other factors go into the rankings, too, like Faculty Resources (20%), Student Selectivity (12.5%), Financial Resources (10%), Graduation Rate Performance (7.5%), and Alumni Giving Rate (5%), and we can quibble with each of them, as they each have serious flaws. Ultimately, we hope we’ve given you enough reasons to base your college choice on other factors besides rankings. But if not rankings, then what? Next month, an article about "College Fit: What it Means and How to Find it!" All quotes and information on the rankings comes from:https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/how-us-news-calculated-the-rankingshttps://www.usnews.com/news/national/articles/2008/05/16/the-birth-of-college-rankingshttp://www.insidehighered.com/news/2007/06/20/usnews

The Treatment of Women in Hamlet Essay - 1014 Words

The Treatment of Women in Hamlet The treatment of women in Hamlet is very troubling. The leading female characters, Queen Gertrude and Ophelia, are pawns or puppets for the men around them. Like chess pieces, they are moved about and influenced by the men they love with little say of their own; in fact, Shakespeare does not even develop their characters. Of course, Hamlet is the whirlwind at the center of attention throughout the play, one who is incredibly difficult to understand. To me, he appears to be an adolescent completely out of control. Virtually everyone tries to pacify him, yet nothing seems to work, and the more they pamper the worse he becomes; reminds me of the old clichà ©, give an inch, take a†¦show more content†¦The concept of Gertrudes femininity was clear to me throughout the play, its significance lied in what was implied rather than spoken. Gertrude, Good Hamlet, cast thy knighted color off, and let thine eye look like a friend on Denmark [...] Thou knowst tis common: all that lives must die, passing through nature to eternity. (1.2.69-74) Gertrude speaking to Hamlet, Let not thy mother lose her prayers, I pray thee stay with us, go not to Wittenberge. (1.2.120-1) Gertrude to Ophelia, And for your part, Ophelia, I do wish that your good beauties be the happy cause of Hamlets wildness; so shall I hope your virtues will bring him to his wonted way again, to both your honours. (3.1.43-7) In defense of her sons murder of Polonius, speaking to Claudius, Oer whom his very madness, like some ore (gold) among a mineral of metals base, shows itself pure: he weeps for what he has done. In her final moments: Gertrude, No, no, the drink, the drink - O my dear Hamlet...The drink, the drink! I am poisoned. (5.2.288) Ophelia, on the other hand, is given far more lines than Gertrude. We learn much more about Ophelia during the play through her words, and a sort of osmosis through those she is surrounded, observed, and manipulated by: Polonius, Laertes, Hamlet, and Claudius. Upon myShow MoreRelatedEssay about Treatment of Women in Hamlet and Trifles2666 Words   |  11 PagesTreatment of Women in Hamlet and Trifles Of all Shakespeare’s thirty-seven plays, perhaps the best known and loved is Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Many people think that it is unforgettable because of its poetic language and style. But, while these are factors that mark the play as a classic, it remains timeless because it explores many of the issues that are still important to people today. These issues, including loyalty to family and country, protecting loved ones, and deception are stillRead MoreHamlet s Attitude Towards Women Through His Treatment Of Ophelia848 Words   |  4 PagesWhat is revealed about Hamlet’s attitude towards women through his treatment of Ophelia? The character of Ophelia is most often represented in art and literature as morose, frail or and often dead. The fact that these are the traits residual in an audience’s memory since the conception of the character reflects something of her representation and her traditional interpretation. Typical to Shakespeare’s work, the play features a vein of ambiguity, which runs throughout the plot. One of the great ambiguitiesRead MoreHamlet s Treatment Towards Gertrude994 Words   |  4 PagesHamlet’s treatment towards Gertrude (mother) is not unreasonable but the way Hamlet treats Ophelia is a little harsh in the beginning when she is completely innocent. Further along through the play Hamlet’s treatment towards Ophelia can be considered reasonable since she basically decided to side with Claudius and Polonius. The way in which Hamlet treats Gertrude and Ophelia doesn’t seem to be a part of the misogyny in the culture. Hamlet does seem to possess a great hatred for women, especiallyRead MoreHamlet s Attitude And Treatment Of His Mother1522 Words   |  7 PagesModern folklore suggests women look at a man s relationship with his mother to predict how they will treat other women in their life. Hamlet is a good example of a son s treatment of his mother reflecting how he will treat the woman he loves because when considering Hamlet s attitude and treatment of the Ophelia in William Shakespeare s play, Hamlet, one must first consider how Hamlet treated his mother. A characteristic of Hamlet s personality is to make broad, sweeping generalizations andRead MoreThe And Human Nature s Love For Categorization1011 Words   |  5 Pagesexample of one of these underlying themes is Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Hamlet can be seen through a Feminist Literary Lens, revealing the patriarchal structure of society in this fictional work of literature. To begin with, one cannot look at a work through a Feminist Literary Lens until one knows what that is. To put it simply, a Feminist Literary Lens is a way of pointing out gender indifferences in a story, specifically the oppression of women in that society. This indifference comes in many differentRead MoreConflict Between Hamlet And Laerte By William Shakespeare1564 Words   |  7 PagesThroughout Hamlet, several characters die. For most, this happens through combat, such as the duel between Hamlet and Laerte, which kills them both. In the play, however, two characters die in quick, seemingly careless ways. The first, the fair Ophelia, is killed by her own madness in what seems to be suicide. The other, Gertrude, dies due to the carelessness of her husband, who accidentally poisons her. In both of these cases, their deaths, and the events that led to them, represent a differenceRead MoreHamlet Character Analysis1502 Words   |  7 PagesWritten by William Shakespeare, Hamlet has a strong relationship with the authors society and era, being the late 1500’s to early 1600’s. Hamlet, a character is confliction with his society, shows different views and actions to his fellow Danish men. Shakespeare could create a character whom through Hamlet’s life choices, his own historical and cultural context and the state of Hamlet being in confliction with the Elizabethan-era and Nihilism showed immense differences from his society, which ShakespeareRead MoreThe Juxtaposition of Hamlet Characters1658 Words   |  7 Pagesâ€Å"The Tragedy of Hamlet†, Ophelia and Laertes represent different aspects of prince Hamlets traits that further the understanding of his behaviour, thoughts, and over-all character. Laertes and Ophelia, like Hamlet, are children of murdered fathers. This connection helps create a link between the three that sends them passionately to their end. Ophelia has an important relationship and entangling affair with the prince. Hamlets and Ophelia’s actions in time lead the young women into a deep griefRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare Essay1580 Words   |  7 PagesIn the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, it is clear that Hamlet’s character is truly a puzzled one. It is no secret that Hamlet is displeased with his life and the relationships around him. William Shakespeare in evaluating Hamlet’s relationship with his mother Gertrude and lover Ophelia creates an interesting love-hate relationship. Gertrude and Ophelia both deeply care for Hamlet but he does not seem to recognize that love and is instead blinded by his father’s revenge. Throughout the play,Read MoreStruggle and Disillusionment in Hamlet Essays919 Words   |  4 Pageshis character Hamlet, contributes to the continued engagement of modern audiences. The employment of the soliloquy demonstrates Shakespeare’s approach to the dramatic treatment of these emotions. The soliloquy brings a compensating intimacy, and becomes the means by which Shakespeare brings the audience not only to a knowledge of secret thoughts of characters, but into the closest emotional touch with them too. Through this, the audiences therefore gain a closer relationship with Hamlet, and are absorbed

The Treatment of Women in Hamlet Essay - 1014 Words

The Treatment of Women in Hamlet The treatment of women in Hamlet is very troubling. The leading female characters, Queen Gertrude and Ophelia, are pawns or puppets for the men around them. Like chess pieces, they are moved about and influenced by the men they love with little say of their own; in fact, Shakespeare does not even develop their characters. Of course, Hamlet is the whirlwind at the center of attention throughout the play, one who is incredibly difficult to understand. To me, he appears to be an adolescent completely out of control. Virtually everyone tries to pacify him, yet nothing seems to work, and the more they pamper the worse he becomes; reminds me of the old clichà ©, give an inch, take a†¦show more content†¦The concept of Gertrudes femininity was clear to me throughout the play, its significance lied in what was implied rather than spoken. Gertrude, Good Hamlet, cast thy knighted color off, and let thine eye look like a friend on Denmark [...] Thou knowst tis common: all that lives must die, passing through nature to eternity. (1.2.69-74) Gertrude speaking to Hamlet, Let not thy mother lose her prayers, I pray thee stay with us, go not to Wittenberge. (1.2.120-1) Gertrude to Ophelia, And for your part, Ophelia, I do wish that your good beauties be the happy cause of Hamlets wildness; so shall I hope your virtues will bring him to his wonted way again, to both your honours. (3.1.43-7) In defense of her sons murder of Polonius, speaking to Claudius, Oer whom his very madness, like some ore (gold) among a mineral of metals base, shows itself pure: he weeps for what he has done. In her final moments: Gertrude, No, no, the drink, the drink - O my dear Hamlet...The drink, the drink! I am poisoned. (5.2.288) Ophelia, on the other hand, is given far more lines than Gertrude. We learn much more about Ophelia during the play through her words, and a sort of osmosis through those she is surrounded, observed, and manipulated by: Polonius, Laertes, Hamlet, and Claudius. Upon myShow MoreRelatedEssay about Treatment of Women in Hamlet and Trifles2666 Words   |  11 PagesTreatment of Women in Hamlet and Trifles Of all Shakespeare’s thirty-seven plays, perhaps the best known and loved is Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Many people think that it is unforgettable because of its poetic language and style. But, while these are factors that mark the play as a classic, it remains timeless because it explores many of the issues that are still important to people today. These issues, including loyalty to family and country, protecting loved ones, and deception are stillRead MoreHamlet s Attitude Towards Women Through His Treatment Of Ophelia848 Words   |  4 PagesWhat is revealed about Hamlet’s attitude towards women through his treatment of Ophelia? The character of Ophelia is most often represented in art and literature as morose, frail or and often dead. The fact that these are the traits residual in an audience’s memory since the conception of the character reflects something of her representation and her traditional interpretation. Typical to Shakespeare’s work, the play features a vein of ambiguity, which runs throughout the plot. One of the great ambiguitiesRead MoreHamlet s Treatment Towards Gertrude994 Words   |  4 PagesHamlet’s treatment towards Gertrude (mother) is not unreasonable but the way Hamlet treats Ophelia is a little harsh in the beginning when she is completely innocent. Further along through the play Hamlet’s treatment towards Ophelia can be considered reasonable since she basically decided to side with Claudius and Polonius. The way in which Hamlet treats Gertrude and Ophelia doesn’t seem to be a part of the misogyny in the culture. Hamlet does seem to possess a great hatred for women, especiallyRead MoreHamlet s Attitude And Treatment Of His Mother1522 Words   |  7 PagesModern folklore suggests women look at a man s relationship with his mother to predict how they will treat other women in their life. Hamlet is a good example of a son s treatment of his mother reflecting how he will treat the woman he loves because when considering Hamlet s attitude and treatment of the Ophelia in William Shakespeare s play, Hamlet, one must first consider how Hamlet treated his mother. A characteristic of Hamlet s personality is to make broad, sweeping generalizations andRead MoreThe And Human Nature s Love For Categorization1011 Words   |  5 Pagesexample of one of these underlying themes is Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Hamlet can be seen through a Feminist Literary Lens, revealing the patriarchal structure of society in this fictional work of literature. To begin with, one cannot look at a work through a Feminist Literary Lens until one knows what that is. To put it simply, a Feminist Literary Lens is a way of pointing out gender indifferences in a story, specifically the oppression of women in that society. This indifference comes in many differentRead MoreConflict Between Hamlet And Laerte By William Shakespeare1564 Words   |  7 PagesThroughout Hamlet, several characters die. For most, this happens through combat, such as the duel between Hamlet and Laerte, which kills them both. In the play, however, two characters die in quick, seemingly careless ways. The first, the fair Ophelia, is killed by her own madness in what seems to be suicide. The other, Gertrude, dies due to the carelessness of her husband, who accidentally poisons her. In both of these cases, their deaths, and the events that led to them, represent a differenceRead MoreHamlet Character Analysis1502 Words   |  7 PagesWritten by William Shakespeare, Hamlet has a strong relationship with the authors society and era, being the late 1500’s to early 1600’s. Hamlet, a character is confliction with his society, shows different views and actions to his fellow Danish men. Shakespeare could create a character whom through Hamlet’s life choices, his own historical and cultural context and the state of Hamlet being in confliction with the Elizabethan-era and Nihilism showed immense differences from his society, which ShakespeareRead MoreThe Juxtaposition of Hamlet Characters1658 Words   |  7 Pagesâ€Å"The Tragedy of Hamlet†, Ophelia and Laertes represent different aspects of prince Hamlets traits that further the understanding of his behaviour, thoughts, and over-all character. Laertes and Ophelia, like Hamlet, are children of murdered fathers. This connection helps create a link between the three that sends them passionately to their end. Ophelia has an important relationship and entangling affair with the prince. Hamlets and Ophelia’s actions in time lead the young women into a deep griefRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare Essay1580 Words   |  7 PagesIn the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, it is clear that Hamlet’s character is truly a puzzled one. It is no secret that Hamlet is displeased with his life and the relationships around him. William Shakespeare in evaluating Hamlet’s relationship with his mother Gertrude and lover Ophelia creates an interesting love-hate relationship. Gertrude and Ophelia both deeply care for Hamlet but he does not seem to recognize that love and is instead blinded by his father’s revenge. Throughout the play,Read MoreStruggle and Disillusionment in Hamlet Essays919 Words   |  4 Pageshis character Hamlet, contributes to the continued engagement of modern audiences. The employment of the soliloquy demonstrates Shakespeare’s approach to the dramatic treatment of these emotions. The soliloquy brings a compensating intimacy, and becomes the means by which Shakespeare brings the audience not only to a knowledge of secret thoughts of characters, but into the closest emotional touch with them too. Through this, the audiences therefore gain a closer relationship with Hamlet, and are absorbed

The Treatment of Women in Hamlet Essay - 1014 Words

The Treatment of Women in Hamlet The treatment of women in Hamlet is very troubling. The leading female characters, Queen Gertrude and Ophelia, are pawns or puppets for the men around them. Like chess pieces, they are moved about and influenced by the men they love with little say of their own; in fact, Shakespeare does not even develop their characters. Of course, Hamlet is the whirlwind at the center of attention throughout the play, one who is incredibly difficult to understand. To me, he appears to be an adolescent completely out of control. Virtually everyone tries to pacify him, yet nothing seems to work, and the more they pamper the worse he becomes; reminds me of the old clichà ©, give an inch, take a†¦show more content†¦The concept of Gertrudes femininity was clear to me throughout the play, its significance lied in what was implied rather than spoken. Gertrude, Good Hamlet, cast thy knighted color off, and let thine eye look like a friend on Denmark [...] Thou knowst tis common: all that lives must die, passing through nature to eternity. (1.2.69-74) Gertrude speaking to Hamlet, Let not thy mother lose her prayers, I pray thee stay with us, go not to Wittenberge. (1.2.120-1) Gertrude to Ophelia, And for your part, Ophelia, I do wish that your good beauties be the happy cause of Hamlets wildness; so shall I hope your virtues will bring him to his wonted way again, to both your honours. (3.1.43-7) In defense of her sons murder of Polonius, speaking to Claudius, Oer whom his very madness, like some ore (gold) among a mineral of metals base, shows itself pure: he weeps for what he has done. In her final moments: Gertrude, No, no, the drink, the drink - O my dear Hamlet...The drink, the drink! I am poisoned. (5.2.288) Ophelia, on the other hand, is given far more lines than Gertrude. We learn much more about Ophelia during the play through her words, and a sort of osmosis through those she is surrounded, observed, and manipulated by: Polonius, Laertes, Hamlet, and Claudius. Upon myShow MoreRelatedEssay about Treatment of Women in Hamlet and Trifles2666 Words   |  11 PagesTreatment of Women in Hamlet and Trifles Of all Shakespeare’s thirty-seven plays, perhaps the best known and loved is Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Many people think that it is unforgettable because of its poetic language and style. But, while these are factors that mark the play as a classic, it remains timeless because it explores many of the issues that are still important to people today. These issues, including loyalty to family and country, protecting loved ones, and deception are stillRead MoreHamlet s Attitude Towards Women Through His Treatment Of Ophelia848 Words   |  4 PagesWhat is revealed about Hamlet’s attitude towards women through his treatment of Ophelia? The character of Ophelia is most often represented in art and literature as morose, frail or and often dead. The fact that these are the traits residual in an audience’s memory since the conception of the character reflects something of her representation and her traditional interpretation. Typical to Shakespeare’s work, the play features a vein of ambiguity, which runs throughout the plot. One of the great ambiguitiesRead MoreHamlet s Treatment Towards Gertrude994 Words   |  4 PagesHamlet’s treatment towards Gertrude (mother) is not unreasonable but the way Hamlet treats Ophelia is a little harsh in the beginning when she is completely innocent. Further along through the play Hamlet’s treatment towards Ophelia can be considered reasonable since she basically decided to side with Claudius and Polonius. The way in which Hamlet treats Gertrude and Ophelia doesn’t seem to be a part of the misogyny in the culture. Hamlet does seem to possess a great hatred for women, especiallyRead MoreHamlet s Attitude And Treatment Of His Mother1522 Words   |  7 PagesModern folklore suggests women look at a man s relationship with his mother to predict how they will treat other women in their life. Hamlet is a good example of a son s treatment of his mother reflecting how he will treat the woman he loves because when considering Hamlet s attitude and treatment of the Ophelia in William Shakespeare s play, Hamlet, one must first consider how Hamlet treated his mother. A characteristic of Hamlet s personality is to make broad, sweeping generalizations andRead MoreThe And Human Nature s Love For Categorization1011 Words   |  5 Pagesexample of one of these underlying themes is Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Hamlet can be seen through a Feminist Literary Lens, revealing the patriarchal structure of society in this fictional work of literature. To begin with, one cannot look at a work through a Feminist Literary Lens until one knows what that is. To put it simply, a Feminist Literary Lens is a way of pointing out gender indifferences in a story, specifically the oppression of women in that society. This indifference comes in many differentRead MoreConflict Between Hamlet And Laerte By William Shakespeare1564 Words   |  7 PagesThroughout Hamlet, several characters die. For most, this happens through combat, such as the duel between Hamlet and Laerte, which kills them both. In the play, however, two characters die in quick, seemingly careless ways. The first, the fair Ophelia, is killed by her own madness in what seems to be suicide. The other, Gertrude, dies due to the carelessness of her husband, who accidentally poisons her. In both of these cases, their deaths, and the events that led to them, represent a differenceRead MoreHamlet Character Analysis1502 Words   |  7 PagesWritten by William Shakespeare, Hamlet has a strong relationship with the authors society and era, being the late 1500’s to early 1600’s. Hamlet, a character is confliction with his society, shows different views and actions to his fellow Danish men. Shakespeare could create a character whom through Hamlet’s life choices, his own historical and cultural context and the state of Hamlet being in confliction with the Elizabethan-era and Nihilism showed immense differences from his society, which ShakespeareRead MoreThe Juxtaposition of Hamlet Characters1658 Words   |  7 Pagesâ€Å"The Tragedy of Hamlet†, Ophelia and Laertes represent different aspects of prince Hamlets traits that further the understanding of his behaviour, thoughts, and over-all character. Laertes and Ophelia, like Hamlet, are children of murdered fathers. This connection helps create a link between the three that sends them passionately to their end. Ophelia has an important relationship and entangling affair with the prince. Hamlets and Ophelia’s actions in time lead the young women into a deep griefRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare Essay1580 Words   |  7 PagesIn the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, it is clear that Hamlet’s character is truly a puzzled one. It is no secret that Hamlet is displeased with his life and the relationships around him. William Shakespeare in evaluating Hamlet’s relationship with his mother Gertrude and lover Ophelia creates an interesting love-hate relationship. Gertrude and Ophelia both deeply care for Hamlet but he does not seem to recognize that love and is instead blinded by his father’s revenge. Throughout the play,Read MoreStruggle and Disillusionment in Hamlet Essays919 Words   |  4 Pageshis character Hamlet, contributes to the continued engagement of modern audiences. The employment of the soliloquy demonstrates Shakespeare’s approach to the dramatic treatment of these emotions. The soliloquy brings a compensating intimacy, and becomes the means by which Shakespeare brings the audience not only to a knowledge of secret thoughts of characters, but into the closest emotional touch with them too. Through this, the audiences therefore gain a closer relationship with Hamlet, and are absorbed

The Treatment of Women in Hamlet Essay - 1014 Words

The Treatment of Women in Hamlet The treatment of women in Hamlet is very troubling. The leading female characters, Queen Gertrude and Ophelia, are pawns or puppets for the men around them. Like chess pieces, they are moved about and influenced by the men they love with little say of their own; in fact, Shakespeare does not even develop their characters. Of course, Hamlet is the whirlwind at the center of attention throughout the play, one who is incredibly difficult to understand. To me, he appears to be an adolescent completely out of control. Virtually everyone tries to pacify him, yet nothing seems to work, and the more they pamper the worse he becomes; reminds me of the old clichà ©, give an inch, take a†¦show more content†¦The concept of Gertrudes femininity was clear to me throughout the play, its significance lied in what was implied rather than spoken. Gertrude, Good Hamlet, cast thy knighted color off, and let thine eye look like a friend on Denmark [...] Thou knowst tis common: all that lives must die, passing through nature to eternity. (1.2.69-74) Gertrude speaking to Hamlet, Let not thy mother lose her prayers, I pray thee stay with us, go not to Wittenberge. (1.2.120-1) Gertrude to Ophelia, And for your part, Ophelia, I do wish that your good beauties be the happy cause of Hamlets wildness; so shall I hope your virtues will bring him to his wonted way again, to both your honours. (3.1.43-7) In defense of her sons murder of Polonius, speaking to Claudius, Oer whom his very madness, like some ore (gold) among a mineral of metals base, shows itself pure: he weeps for what he has done. In her final moments: Gertrude, No, no, the drink, the drink - O my dear Hamlet...The drink, the drink! I am poisoned. (5.2.288) Ophelia, on the other hand, is given far more lines than Gertrude. We learn much more about Ophelia during the play through her words, and a sort of osmosis through those she is surrounded, observed, and manipulated by: Polonius, Laertes, Hamlet, and Claudius. Upon myShow MoreRelatedEssay about Treatment of Women in Hamlet and Trifles2666 Words   |  11 PagesTreatment of Women in Hamlet and Trifles Of all Shakespeare’s thirty-seven plays, perhaps the best known and loved is Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Many people think that it is unforgettable because of its poetic language and style. But, while these are factors that mark the play as a classic, it remains timeless because it explores many of the issues that are still important to people today. These issues, including loyalty to family and country, protecting loved ones, and deception are stillRead MoreHamlet s Attitude Towards Women Through His Treatment Of Ophelia848 Words   |  4 PagesWhat is revealed about Hamlet’s attitude towards women through his treatment of Ophelia? The character of Ophelia is most often represented in art and literature as morose, frail or and often dead. The fact that these are the traits residual in an audience’s memory since the conception of the character reflects something of her representation and her traditional interpretation. Typical to Shakespeare’s work, the play features a vein of ambiguity, which runs throughout the plot. One of the great ambiguitiesRead MoreHamlet s Treatment Towards Gertrude994 Words   |  4 PagesHamlet’s treatment towards Gertrude (mother) is not unreasonable but the way Hamlet treats Ophelia is a little harsh in the beginning when she is completely innocent. Further along through the play Hamlet’s treatment towards Ophelia can be considered reasonable since she basically decided to side with Claudius and Polonius. The way in which Hamlet treats Gertrude and Ophelia doesn’t seem to be a part of the misogyny in the culture. Hamlet does seem to possess a great hatred for women, especiallyRead MoreHamlet s Attitude And Treatment Of His Mother1522 Words   |  7 PagesModern folklore suggests women look at a man s relationship with his mother to predict how they will treat other women in their life. Hamlet is a good example of a son s treatment of his mother reflecting how he will treat the woman he loves because when considering Hamlet s attitude and treatment of the Ophelia in William Shakespeare s play, Hamlet, one must first consider how Hamlet treated his mother. A characteristic of Hamlet s personality is to make broad, sweeping generalizations andRead MoreThe And Human Nature s Love For Categorization1011 Words   |  5 Pagesexample of one of these underlying themes is Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Hamlet can be seen through a Feminist Literary Lens, revealing the patriarchal structure of society in this fictional work of literature. To begin with, one cannot look at a work through a Feminist Literary Lens until one knows what that is. To put it simply, a Feminist Literary Lens is a way of pointing out gender indifferences in a story, specifically the oppression of women in that society. This indifference comes in many differentRead MoreConflict Between Hamlet And Laerte By William Shakespeare1564 Words   |  7 PagesThroughout Hamlet, several characters die. For most, this happens through combat, such as the duel between Hamlet and Laerte, which kills them both. In the play, however, two characters die in quick, seemingly careless ways. The first, the fair Ophelia, is killed by her own madness in what seems to be suicide. The other, Gertrude, dies due to the carelessness of her husband, who accidentally poisons her. In both of these cases, their deaths, and the events that led to them, represent a differenceRead MoreHamlet Character Analysis1502 Words   |  7 PagesWritten by William Shakespeare, Hamlet has a strong relationship with the authors society and era, being the late 1500’s to early 1600’s. Hamlet, a character is confliction with his society, shows different views and actions to his fellow Danish men. Shakespeare could create a character whom through Hamlet’s life choices, his own historical and cultural context and the state of Hamlet being in confliction with the Elizabethan-era and Nihilism showed immense differences from his society, which ShakespeareRead MoreThe Juxtaposition of Hamlet Characters1658 Words   |  7 Pagesâ€Å"The Tragedy of Hamlet†, Ophelia and Laertes represent different aspects of prince Hamlets traits that further the understanding of his behaviour, thoughts, and over-all character. Laertes and Ophelia, like Hamlet, are children of murdered fathers. This connection helps create a link between the three that sends them passionately to their end. Ophelia has an important relationship and entangling affair with the prince. Hamlets and Ophelia’s actions in time lead the young women into a deep griefRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare Essay1580 Words   |  7 PagesIn the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, it is clear that Hamlet’s character is truly a puzzled one. It is no secret that Hamlet is displeased with his life and the relationships around him. William Shakespeare in evaluating Hamlet’s relationship with his mother Gertrude and lover Ophelia creates an interesting love-hate relationship. Gertrude and Ophelia both deeply care for Hamlet but he does not seem to recognize that love and is instead blinded by his father’s revenge. Throughout the play,Read MoreStruggle and Disillusionment in Hamlet Essays919 Words   |  4 Pageshis character Hamlet, contributes to the continued engagement of modern audiences. The employment of the soliloquy demonstrates Shakespeare’s approach to the dramatic treatment of these emotions. The soliloquy brings a compensating intimacy, and becomes the means by which Shakespeare brings the audience not only to a knowledge of secret thoughts of characters, but into the closest emotional touch with them too. Through this, the audiences therefore gain a closer relationship with Hamlet, and are absorbed

The Treatment of Women in Hamlet Essay - 1014 Words

The Treatment of Women in Hamlet The treatment of women in Hamlet is very troubling. The leading female characters, Queen Gertrude and Ophelia, are pawns or puppets for the men around them. Like chess pieces, they are moved about and influenced by the men they love with little say of their own; in fact, Shakespeare does not even develop their characters. Of course, Hamlet is the whirlwind at the center of attention throughout the play, one who is incredibly difficult to understand. To me, he appears to be an adolescent completely out of control. Virtually everyone tries to pacify him, yet nothing seems to work, and the more they pamper the worse he becomes; reminds me of the old clichà ©, give an inch, take a†¦show more content†¦The concept of Gertrudes femininity was clear to me throughout the play, its significance lied in what was implied rather than spoken. Gertrude, Good Hamlet, cast thy knighted color off, and let thine eye look like a friend on Denmark [...] Thou knowst tis common: all that lives must die, passing through nature to eternity. (1.2.69-74) Gertrude speaking to Hamlet, Let not thy mother lose her prayers, I pray thee stay with us, go not to Wittenberge. (1.2.120-1) Gertrude to Ophelia, And for your part, Ophelia, I do wish that your good beauties be the happy cause of Hamlets wildness; so shall I hope your virtues will bring him to his wonted way again, to both your honours. (3.1.43-7) In defense of her sons murder of Polonius, speaking to Claudius, Oer whom his very madness, like some ore (gold) among a mineral of metals base, shows itself pure: he weeps for what he has done. In her final moments: Gertrude, No, no, the drink, the drink - O my dear Hamlet...The drink, the drink! I am poisoned. (5.2.288) Ophelia, on the other hand, is given far more lines than Gertrude. We learn much more about Ophelia during the play through her words, and a sort of osmosis through those she is surrounded, observed, and manipulated by: Polonius, Laertes, Hamlet, and Claudius. Upon myShow MoreRelatedEssay about Treatment of Women in Hamlet and Trifles2666 Words   |  11 PagesTreatment of Women in Hamlet and Trifles Of all Shakespeare’s thirty-seven plays, perhaps the best known and loved is Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Many people think that it is unforgettable because of its poetic language and style. But, while these are factors that mark the play as a classic, it remains timeless because it explores many of the issues that are still important to people today. These issues, including loyalty to family and country, protecting loved ones, and deception are stillRead MoreHamlet s Attitude Towards Women Through His Treatment Of Ophelia848 Words   |  4 PagesWhat is revealed about Hamlet’s attitude towards women through his treatment of Ophelia? The character of Ophelia is most often represented in art and literature as morose, frail or and often dead. The fact that these are the traits residual in an audience’s memory since the conception of the character reflects something of her representation and her traditional interpretation. Typical to Shakespeare’s work, the play features a vein of ambiguity, which runs throughout the plot. One of the great ambiguitiesRead MoreHamlet s Treatment Towards Gertrude994 Words   |  4 PagesHamlet’s treatment towards Gertrude (mother) is not unreasonable but the way Hamlet treats Ophelia is a little harsh in the beginning when she is completely innocent. Further along through the play Hamlet’s treatment towards Ophelia can be considered reasonable since she basically decided to side with Claudius and Polonius. The way in which Hamlet treats Gertrude and Ophelia doesn’t seem to be a part of the misogyny in the culture. Hamlet does seem to possess a great hatred for women, especiallyRead MoreHamlet s Attitude And Treatment Of His Mother1522 Words   |  7 PagesModern folklore suggests women look at a man s relationship with his mother to predict how they will treat other women in their life. Hamlet is a good example of a son s treatment of his mother reflecting how he will treat the woman he loves because when considering Hamlet s attitude and treatment of the Ophelia in William Shakespeare s play, Hamlet, one must first consider how Hamlet treated his mother. A characteristic of Hamlet s personality is to make broad, sweeping generalizations andRead MoreThe And Human Nature s Love For Categorization1011 Words   |  5 Pagesexample of one of these underlying themes is Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Hamlet can be seen through a Feminist Literary Lens, revealing the patriarchal structure of society in this fictional work of literature. To begin with, one cannot look at a work through a Feminist Literary Lens until one knows what that is. To put it simply, a Feminist Literary Lens is a way of pointing out gender indifferences in a story, specifically the oppression of women in that society. This indifference comes in many differentRead MoreConflict Between Hamlet And Laerte By William Shakespeare1564 Words   |  7 PagesThroughout Hamlet, several characters die. For most, this happens through combat, such as the duel between Hamlet and Laerte, which kills them both. In the play, however, two characters die in quick, seemingly careless ways. The first, the fair Ophelia, is killed by her own madness in what seems to be suicide. The other, Gertrude, dies due to the carelessness of her husband, who accidentally poisons her. In both of these cases, their deaths, and the events that led to them, represent a differenceRead MoreHamlet Character Analysis1502 Words   |  7 PagesWritten by William Shakespeare, Hamlet has a strong relationship with the authors society and era, being the late 1500’s to early 1600’s. Hamlet, a character is confliction with his society, shows different views and actions to his fellow Danish men. Shakespeare could create a character whom through Hamlet’s life choices, his own historical and cultural context and the state of Hamlet being in confliction with the Elizabethan-era and Nihilism showed immense differences from his society, which ShakespeareRead MoreThe Juxtaposition of Hamlet Characters1658 Words   |  7 Pagesâ€Å"The Tragedy of Hamlet†, Ophelia and Laertes represent different aspects of prince Hamlets traits that further the understanding of his behaviour, thoughts, and over-all character. Laertes and Ophelia, like Hamlet, are children of murdered fathers. This connection helps create a link between the three that sends them passionately to their end. Ophelia has an important relationship and entangling affair with the prince. Hamlets and Ophelia’s actions in time lead the young women into a deep griefRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare Essay1580 Words   |  7 PagesIn the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, it is clear that Hamlet’s character is truly a puzzled one. It is no secret that Hamlet is displeased with his life and the relationships around him. William Shakespeare in evaluating Hamlet’s relationship with his mother Gertrude and lover Ophelia creates an interesting love-hate relationship. Gertrude and Ophelia both deeply care for Hamlet but he does not seem to recognize that love and is instead blinded by his father’s revenge. Throughout the play,Read MoreStruggle and Disillusionment in Hamlet Essays919 Words   |  4 Pageshis character Hamlet, contributes to the continued engagement of modern audiences. The employment of the soliloquy demonstrates Shakespeare’s approach to the dramatic treatment of these emotions. The soliloquy brings a compensating intimacy, and becomes the means by which Shakespeare brings the audience not only to a knowledge of secret thoughts of characters, but into the closest emotional touch with them too. Through this, the audiences therefore gain a closer relationship with Hamlet, and are absorbed

The Treatment of Women in Hamlet Essay - 1014 Words

The Treatment of Women in Hamlet The treatment of women in Hamlet is very troubling. The leading female characters, Queen Gertrude and Ophelia, are pawns or puppets for the men around them. Like chess pieces, they are moved about and influenced by the men they love with little say of their own; in fact, Shakespeare does not even develop their characters. Of course, Hamlet is the whirlwind at the center of attention throughout the play, one who is incredibly difficult to understand. To me, he appears to be an adolescent completely out of control. Virtually everyone tries to pacify him, yet nothing seems to work, and the more they pamper the worse he becomes; reminds me of the old clichà ©, give an inch, take a†¦show more content†¦The concept of Gertrudes femininity was clear to me throughout the play, its significance lied in what was implied rather than spoken. Gertrude, Good Hamlet, cast thy knighted color off, and let thine eye look like a friend on Denmark [...] Thou knowst tis common: all that lives must die, passing through nature to eternity. (1.2.69-74) Gertrude speaking to Hamlet, Let not thy mother lose her prayers, I pray thee stay with us, go not to Wittenberge. (1.2.120-1) Gertrude to Ophelia, And for your part, Ophelia, I do wish that your good beauties be the happy cause of Hamlets wildness; so shall I hope your virtues will bring him to his wonted way again, to both your honours. (3.1.43-7) In defense of her sons murder of Polonius, speaking to Claudius, Oer whom his very madness, like some ore (gold) among a mineral of metals base, shows itself pure: he weeps for what he has done. In her final moments: Gertrude, No, no, the drink, the drink - O my dear Hamlet...The drink, the drink! I am poisoned. (5.2.288) Ophelia, on the other hand, is given far more lines than Gertrude. We learn much more about Ophelia during the play through her words, and a sort of osmosis through those she is surrounded, observed, and manipulated by: Polonius, Laertes, Hamlet, and Claudius. Upon myShow MoreRelatedEssay about Treatment of Women in Hamlet and Trifles2666 Words   |  11 PagesTreatment of Women in Hamlet and Trifles Of all Shakespeare’s thirty-seven plays, perhaps the best known and loved is Hamlet, Prince of Denmark. Many people think that it is unforgettable because of its poetic language and style. But, while these are factors that mark the play as a classic, it remains timeless because it explores many of the issues that are still important to people today. These issues, including loyalty to family and country, protecting loved ones, and deception are stillRead MoreHamlet s Attitude Towards Women Through His Treatment Of Ophelia848 Words   |  4 PagesWhat is revealed about Hamlet’s attitude towards women through his treatment of Ophelia? The character of Ophelia is most often represented in art and literature as morose, frail or and often dead. The fact that these are the traits residual in an audience’s memory since the conception of the character reflects something of her representation and her traditional interpretation. Typical to Shakespeare’s work, the play features a vein of ambiguity, which runs throughout the plot. One of the great ambiguitiesRead MoreHamlet s Treatment Towards Gertrude994 Words   |  4 PagesHamlet’s treatment towards Gertrude (mother) is not unreasonable but the way Hamlet treats Ophelia is a little harsh in the beginning when she is completely innocent. Further along through the play Hamlet’s treatment towards Ophelia can be considered reasonable since she basically decided to side with Claudius and Polonius. The way in which Hamlet treats Gertrude and Ophelia doesn’t seem to be a part of the misogyny in the culture. Hamlet does seem to possess a great hatred for women, especiallyRead MoreHamlet s Attitude And Treatment Of His Mother1522 Words   |  7 PagesModern folklore suggests women look at a man s relationship with his mother to predict how they will treat other women in their life. Hamlet is a good example of a son s treatment of his mother reflecting how he will treat the woman he loves because when considering Hamlet s attitude and treatment of the Ophelia in William Shakespeare s play, Hamlet, one must first consider how Hamlet treated his mother. A characteristic of Hamlet s personality is to make broad, sweeping generalizations andRead MoreThe And Human Nature s Love For Categorization1011 Words   |  5 Pagesexample of one of these underlying themes is Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Hamlet can be seen through a Feminist Literary Lens, revealing the patriarchal structure of society in this fictional work of literature. To begin with, one cannot look at a work through a Feminist Literary Lens until one knows what that is. To put it simply, a Feminist Literary Lens is a way of pointing out gender indifferences in a story, specifically the oppression of women in that society. This indifference comes in many differentRead MoreConflict Between Hamlet And Laerte By William Shakespeare1564 Words   |  7 PagesThroughout Hamlet, several characters die. For most, this happens through combat, such as the duel between Hamlet and Laerte, which kills them both. In the play, however, two characters die in quick, seemingly careless ways. The first, the fair Ophelia, is killed by her own madness in what seems to be suicide. The other, Gertrude, dies due to the carelessness of her husband, who accidentally poisons her. In both of these cases, their deaths, and the events that led to them, represent a differenceRead MoreHamlet Character Analysis1502 Words   |  7 PagesWritten by William Shakespeare, Hamlet has a strong relationship with the authors society and era, being the late 1500’s to early 1600’s. Hamlet, a character is confliction with his society, shows different views and actions to his fellow Danish men. Shakespeare could create a character whom through Hamlet’s life choices, his own historical and cultural context and the state of Hamlet being in confliction with the Elizabethan-era and Nihilism showed immense differences from his society, which ShakespeareRead MoreThe Juxtaposition of Hamlet Characters1658 Words   |  7 Pagesâ€Å"The Tragedy of Hamlet†, Ophelia and Laertes represent different aspects of prince Hamlets traits that further the understanding of his behaviour, thoughts, and over-all character. Laertes and Ophelia, like Hamlet, are children of murdered fathers. This connection helps create a link between the three that sends them passionately to their end. Ophelia has an important relationship and entangling affair with the prince. Hamlets and Ophelia’s actions in time lead the young women into a deep griefRead MoreHamlet, By William Shakespeare Essay1580 Words   |  7 PagesIn the play Hamlet by William Shakespeare, it is clear that Hamlet’s character is truly a puzzled one. It is no secret that Hamlet is displeased with his life and the relationships around him. William Shakespeare in evaluating Hamlet’s relationship with his mother Gertrude and lover Ophelia creates an interesting love-hate relationship. Gertrude and Ophelia both deeply care for Hamlet but he does not seem to recognize that love and is instead blinded by his father’s revenge. Throughout the play,Read MoreStruggle and Disillusionment in Hamlet Essays919 Words   |  4 Pageshis character Hamlet, contributes to the continued engagement of modern audiences. The employment of the soliloquy demonstrates Shakespeare’s approach to the dramatic treatment of these emotions. The soliloquy brings a compensating intimacy, and becomes the means by which Shakespeare brings the audience not only to a knowledge of secret thoughts of characters, but into the closest emotional touch with them too. Through this, the audiences therefore gain a closer relationship with Hamlet, and are absorbed