Polonius's Instructions to Laertes

There are many stages in life that arise and challenge us in different ways. These difficulties come and go, but they are often not as terrible as they seem at the time. A chore as simple as getting dressed in the morning required some form of remedial instruction when we were young. Even considering the task of learning to ride a bike, we may reflect and think that it was simple; we may not even be able to remember what was so taxing about the experience. Like many parents have for centuries, Polonius instructed his son Laertes, who was preparing to leave for college. He spoke various words of truth out of love for his son, hoping that he would pay attention to his teaching. Found in Act I, Scene III of Shakespeare's beloved tragedy, Hamlet, these philosophies can also be applied to multiple aspects of our own lives. The very first warning that Polonius gives to his son is one that every one of us needs to consider and heed as extremely important. He begins by saying, “And these few precepts in thy memory look thou character. Give thy thoughts no tongue, nor any unproportioned thought his act.” (I.III.62-64) In other words, he means that Laertes should never say what he is thinking or act too quickly without thoroughly evaluating the consequences. Being human, we all have this problem and struggle with the effects that it has on our relationships. It is a habit that cannot be easily broken, but these words hold much wisdom regarding the ways of life and how one can keep himself from sinful actions. The Bible warns us, as well, in Proverbs 29:20 where it states, “...there is more hope for a fool than for him (someone who speaks in haste).” Therefore, we can be certain that it is wise to think before we speak.

In saying, “...do not dull thy palm with entertainment of each new-hatched, unfledged comrade,” (I.III.68-69) Polonius makes a valid statement. He is advising Laertes against trusting just anyone because of the dangers that accompany