Ophelia's Flowers in Hamlet - Symbolic Meaning of Flowers in Hamlet by Shakespeare
There is a scene in Hamlet by William Shakespeare where Ophelia goes totally mad and loses her senses after her father, Polonius' death. She comes to Elsinore Castle like a mess with some flowers and weed in her hands. Audience thinks that Ophelia gives flowers to other people randomly and without giving any thought. But, it is not the case. She gives particular flower to particular person with a valid and reasonable reason. She gives up all her flower except one or two. Students often ask such questions like- Which flower does the Mad Ophelia not give away? Which flower does the Mad Ophelia give away? To whom does Ophelia gives flowers? What about Ophelia's flowers? Lets find out answers of these questions and also, lets find out what flower she gives to Gertrude, Claudius, Laertes and Hamlet.
Rue-
Ophelia gives Rue to Queen Gertrude and keeps some for herself too. Rue has been the symbol of bitterness, betrayal and adultery. People used to connect Rue with abortions too in those days.
Fennel and Columbine-
Ophelia gives Fennel and Columbine to King Claudius. By giving Fennel and Columbine to Claudius, she gives a very strong message because Fennel is the symbol of flattery and Columbine is the symbol of deceived lovers. Being a deceived lover, means you are indulge in adultery and faithlessness. Claudius was faithless, indeed.
Rosemary and Pansies-
Ophelia gives Rosemary and Pansy to her brother Laertes. She herself states that these two flowers are for thoughts, prayers and remembrance.
Flowers Ophelia does not give away
Violets-
Ophelia says that she brings violets too with her but all the violets are dried and withered when her father died. So she can't give violets to anyone. It is interesting because violets are associated with faithfulness and fidelity. We must agree, Ophelia's father Polonius was faithful and loyal to King Claudius.
Daisy-
Ophelia picks up daisies and does not give them to anyone. That's so harsh and truth. Why? because daisies are the symbol of innocence and gentleness. Ophelia thinks that there is no one in the court of Denmark who might be considered innocent and gentle.
So, Ophelia was not just giving some random flowers but she was giving strong messages and accusing them. She was in distress and extreme grief.
Written by Zuba'r Saifi
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