The Shakespeare Conference: SHK 23.0292  Tuesday, 10 July 2012

From:        Larry Weiss < This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it >

Date:         July 7, 2012 8:10:38 PM EDT

Subject:     Re: Justin Alexander’s Reliance on Hibbard’s Hypothesis

I have long made the point that “Polonius” should be regarded as an agnomen, like “Coriolanus,” awarded to the young Corambis for his contributions as a warrior or statesman (more likely the latter) in the conquest of Poland. The play suggests that Poland was a traditional enemy of Denmark. 

This view explains why Polonius is held in esteem by Claudius, why he still has some political skill.