ENGLISH LITERATURE (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -Hamlet, Laertes tells Ophelia, is of a higher rank than she and cannot choose with whom he will spend his life. To protect her heart and to safeguard her honor, Laertes asserts that Ophelia should reject Prince Hamlet before he deflowers her.

Detailed explanation-2: -Bidding his sister, Ophelia, farewell, he cautions her against falling in love with Hamlet, who is, according to Laertes, too far above her by birth to be able to love her honorably. Since Hamlet is responsible not only for his own feelings but for his position in the state, it may be impossible for him to marry her.

Detailed explanation-3: -The first letter tells Horatio that pirates beset the ship on which Hamlet was being carried to England. In the ensuing battle, the pirates took Hamlet captive; they treated him well and brought him back to Denmark. He has, in return, promised to do them a favor.

Detailed explanation-4: -Laertes does not think Ophelia should trust Hamlet’s declarations of love because his position as Prince of Denmark means he cannot actually make his own decisions. Laertes thinks if she takes his declarations of love to heart, her honour will be damaged.