Gertrude is the Queen of Denmark and the mother of Hamlet. She is a complex and multifaceted character who is often seen as being weak and indecisive. She is easily manipulated by Claudius and is quick to remarry after her husband's death. However, she is also shown to be loving and caring, particularly towards Hamlet.
Gertrude's characterization reflects the social expectations of women in the Elizabethan era. Women were expected to be obedient and subservient to their husbands, and they were not expected to have much power or influence. Gertrude's willingness to remarry so quickly after her husband's death is seen as a sign of weakness and lack of loyalty. However, her love for Hamlet and her attempts to protect him show that she is not simply a one-dimensional character.
Ophelia
Ophelia is the daughter of Polonius, the Lord Chamberlain of Denmark. She is a beautiful and innocent young woman who is deeply in love with Hamlet. However, her love for Hamlet is ultimately her undoing, as she is driven mad by his rejection and death.
Ophelia's characterization reflects the social expectations of women in the Elizabethan era. Women were expected to be chaste and obedient, and they were not expected to have strong emotions or opinions. Ophelia's madness and death are seen as a punishment for her disobedience and lack of self-control.
Society
The characterizations of Gertrude and Ophelia reflect the social expectations of women in the Elizabethan era. Women were expected to be weak, subservient, and obedient. They were not expected to have much power or influence, and they were expected to be chaste and obedient. Gertrude and Ophelia's characters show how these expectations could lead to tragedy and unhappiness for women.
The characterization of Gertrude and Ophelia also reflects the social class structure of the Elizabethan era. Gertrude is a queen, while Ophelia is the daughter of a nobleman. Their social status gives them some privileges, but they are still subject to the same expectations as other women of their time.