What does Laertes mean when he uses the phrase “Hamlet, and the trifling of his favor” (line 6)?
Hamlet is flirting.
100
What is Laertes’s concern for Ophelia?
Laertes doesn't want Ophelia to lose her virginity to Hamlet.
200
How does Laertes describe Hamlet’s affection?
Sweet but not long lasting.
200
How does Ophelia respond to Laertes’s advice?
I'll follow your advice aka not get with Hamlet.
300
According to Laertes, why is it that Hamlet’s “will is not his own” (line 20)?
Hamlet is the next king, so he can't just go off and marry whoever he wants to. He has to also marry someone that will help his country.
300
What does Ophelia request from Laertes when she says, “Do not as ungracious pastors do” (line 51)?
Don't be a hypocrite and sleep around.
400
Explain the metaphor Laertes gives to describe Hamlet’s pursuit of Ophelia.
Laertes uses a metaphor about war to warn Ophelia that her purity is a life-or-death issue and an extremely serious concern for Laertes and their family.