Hamlet Polonius Characterization
Polonius shows that he is devious and lacks conviction and integrity. Throughout Hamlet, Polonius is a hypocrite who looks out for his own interests, and betrays those he should be loyal to. In Act I, Scene iii, line 96, Polonius says to Ophelia, "You do not understand yourself so clearly as it behooves my daughter and your honor". This scene shows how hypocritical Polonius acts; as he constantly does dishonorable deeds, yet he is preaching to Ophelia to act honorably. Polonius makes decisions based on benefiting himself, not on the well being off his family.