The importance of Ophelia and her flowers

OPHELIA'S AGENCY

Many people argue that Ophelia has very limited agency, and only really makes one decision within the play, which is to end her life. However, this view disregards her behaviour in Act 4, Scene 5, where her gifts of flowers uncover her feelings towards the court of Elsinore. When exploring this scene, the context behind it must be considered, as it is the Elizabethan meanings behind the flowers that uncover the truths Ophelia is trying to tell.

THE MEANING OF THE FLOWERS

• Rosemary: Remembrance
• Pansies: Thoughts
• Fennel: Flattery/deceit
• Columbine: Cuckoldry, foresaken lovers
• Rue: Sorrow/repentance
• Daisies…