Polonius is a character from William Shakespeare's play Hamlet. He serves as the chief counselor to King Claudius and is the father of Ophelia and Laertes. Known for his long-winded speeches and tendency to meddle in the affairs of others, Polonius often provides comic relief in the play. Despite his humorous traits, Polonius is also a tragic figure. His desire to control and spy on others ultimately leads to his demise. He is accidentally killed by Hamlet, which sets off a chain of events that deepens the play's themes of betrayal and madness.