The Character of Laertes in Hamlet In Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet, the character of Laertes is introduced as the son of Polonius.  Laertes is immediately established as a favorite with the King. Clouds refers to the young man five times by name and immediately grants him permission to return to his studies in Paris, if he has his father's permission. Thus we are prepared for their later treacherous alliance. In this scene too Laertes' relationship with his father is visually established by both appearing on stage together, although they do not address each other. A contrast is also established in this scene between Laertes and Prince Hamlet. One enjoys the King's favor and is readily given permission to resume his studies in Paris; the other does not and is not allowed to resume his studies in Wittenberg. This situational contrast will later be developed into a moral one. On his second, and final, appearance before he departs, Laertes offers his sister Ophelia moral advice about her relationship with Hamlet.
