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All Site ContentHamletAct 1Scene 3
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"rear of your affection"
Metaphor
Act 1,
Scene 3
Lines 29-34

An explanation of the “rear of your affection” metaphor in Act 1, Scene 3 of myShakespeare’s Hamlet.

Laertes

Then weigh what loss your honor may sustain, 
If with too credent ear you list his songs,
Or lose your heart, or your chaste treasure open
To his unmastered importunity.
Fear it, Ophelia, fear it, my dear sister, 
And keep you in the rear of your affection,

A soldier must stay in the rear of his army's ranks to avoid the enemy's gunfire. In this metaphor, Ophelia should keep her emotional distance to avoid the danger of Hamlet’s sexual desire.