Ophelia's character is one of much controversy-- no one is quite sure exactly how Shakespeare intended to portray her. Some say she's innocent, compliant, and naive, while others argue she's clever and sometimes even defiant.
In the following portrayal of Act 1, Scene 3, Ophelia strikes me as cooperative and submissive. She loves Hamlet, but she doesn't argue with what her brother tells her. In fact, the news seems to distress her, as if she completely believes what she's being told.
However, in this next clip, Ophelia is depicted as being more capable of thinking for herself. She still listens to what her brother tells her, but is also ready to turn the tables and prove that she's not oblivious to the fact that Laertes is being totally hypocritical.
So who is Ophelia? Innocent, or obstinate? Compliant, or defiant? How do you think Shakespeare meant to portray her?
