HAMLET TEST STUDY GUIDE Q
10. According to the ghost, how was he murdered?
According to the ghost he tells Hamlet that his own brother has killed him (which is now Hamlet's stepfather) the ghost said he poured contents of an ampoule of herbane in his ear. Murdered by Claudius - poured poison in his ear - considered cowardly "what evil woman do" ' Was sleeping in garden ^^
1. This scene begins with a break of comic relief— probably considered necessary now that Ophelia is dead and so many others will soon follow her. Because it is conversation with members lower in society and because it is comedy, the scene begins comically, it is in prose. Notice where the blank verse begins—and why do you think it begins here? (Inconsistencies in the meter after it moves to iambic pentameter may have been because Shakespeare intended for some of the characters to be interrupting and speaking over each other.) Also—the gravedigger is the only character who manages to trick Hamlet with his play on words.
The blank verse begins when Hamlet and Horatio enter, Hamlet reads the gravediggers at work- and then iambic pentameter begins. Essentially it portrays this message of a high-class symbol. Connoting to a serious low tone for the majority of the scene. I feel as though the Blank verse was used specifically for the royal characters- as to why the prose was for the gravediggers giving a more peasant-like feel. For the inconsistency in the meter I feel is mostly for a sense of reality/realism.
3. Unlike his brother King Hamlet, who was known as a warrior, Claudius is a politician. Examine and briefly explain how carefully he speaks in this scene. He addresses his recent marriage (two months after the death of King Hamlet), situations involving Fortinbras and Norway, as well as his chief advisor's family.
As Claudius addresses his recent marriage - he tends to disregard his true emotions and act somewhat fake I would say. For example in the beginning as he states "Though yet of Hamlet our dear brother's death, The memory be green, and that it us befitted To bear our hearts in grief, and our whole kingdom" He seems as though he is speaking for the kingdom and not from his heart- Claudius speaks almost cold hearted as he only address the death of Hamlet very little in the beginning and only talks about himself for most of his speech. Moreover he pleads with Hamlet to let go of his fathers death, although I feel that is something not to do- rather Claudius should help Hamlet get over the hump than pleading to move on- from this as he speaks it goes off in almost an evil tone/mood. Overall his speech is most contradictory to his words.
9. Octavius has the final lines in Julius Caesar, Malcolm has the final lines in Macbeth, and Fortinbras has the final lines in Hamlet. Why? What do these characters have in common, and Why would it matter to Shakespeare's plays?
At a time of chaos and upheaval, all three of these individuals are figures of order and stability who are ready to occupy positions of leadership. Following the murder of Julius Caesar, Octavius became the new emperor of Rome, Malcolm succeeded Macbeth as king of Scotland, and Fortinbras became the new king of Denmark following the demise of Hamlet and his family. They signify the restoration of stability and order following a time of political or personal upheaval. These final lines serve as a reminder of history's cyclical nature and the notion that new leaders will always rise to take the place of those who have fallen. Shakespeeare makes the argument that even if specific individuals may die, the principles and ideals they stand for will endure and influence society long after their deaths. Shakespeare's plays are known for their sense of continuity and change, and the closing lines said by Octavius, Malcolm, and Fortinbras emphasize this point.
8. Explain how Hamlet's exchange with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern reveals exactly what he thinks of Them.
At the beginning of the scene, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern try to question Hamlet about his mental state, convincing him to reveal the cause of his madness. Hamlet, however, is immediately suspicious and confronts them, asking why they have come to visit him. He tells them that he knows they have been sent by the king to spy on him and accuses them of being "willing to play upon this pip,e," which means they are willing to be used as tools by the king. Overall, this exchange reveals that Hamlet does not trust Rosencrantz and Guildenstern and sees them as mere pawns in the larger game being played by King Claudius. He is frustrated by their attempts to manipulate him and sees through their attempts to uncover the cause of his madness. Through his language and behavior, Hamlet conveys a sense of growing anger and bitterness toward those who he sees as being complicit in the corruption of the Danish court.
1. What remark of Polonius (to Ophelia) elicits an aside from Claudius? Why is this brief speech of Claudius to Is the audience important? What do we learn that we have not learned before?
Claudius seems to question Rosencrantz and Guildenstren about Hamlet- asking if they have found a reason for Hamlet's behavior. Polonius tells ophelia to have a bible in her hands- so she doesn't look suspicious when Hamlet walks in *guilty innocence *aside covers ups the wickedness *Claudius says even though he covers it - evil still there *talking about being innocent and covering up *not making himself look innocent (put is trying to) *true to try and cover things up
2. (Ever the politician) Why does Claudius believe he cannot simply arrest and punish Hamlet in Denmark? Also, what does Claudius reveal he has planned for Hamlet in England?
Claudius thinks that because Hamlet is so loved in Denmark, he cannot capture and punish him there. He worries that he'll anger a lot of individuals. Without telling his wife, he intends to have the British murder him in England.
6. As was common at the time, a "dumbshow"—a masked, mimed version is performed mimicking the action of the play to come. As the play is performed, which lines are meant to be most disturbing to Hamlet's intended audience? Directing: How might Claudius react during the dumbshow? Act 3 s 2
During the performance of the play, the lines that are meant to be most disturbing to Hamlet's intended audience are likely those spoken by the Player King as he is murdered by the Player Queen's lover. These lines include, "O villain, villain, smiling, damned villain! My tables,--meet it is I set it down, That one may smile, and smile, and be a villain." These lines are particularly impactful because they directly reflect Hamlet's own suspicions about his uncle Claudius, who he believes to be a smiling villain responsible for the murder of his father. As for Claudius's reaction during the dumbshow, it would depend on the director's interpretation of the character. Claudius could react with shock, guilt, or anger, or he could try to maintain a composed facade to hide his true feelings. Ultimately, the way Claudius reacts to the dumbshow can be used to further explore his character and motivations and to highlight his complicity in the murder of King Hamlet. *none but the second *stands non reacting- faking it *looks uncomfortable
13. What kind of person do you think Gertrude is? Does siv she simply yield to powerful men--including Hamlet in this scene? Does she lie to Hamlet in this scene, just saying what he wants to hear, or does she actually regret her actions? (This is your choice.)
Gertrude, the mother of Hamlet, is a complex character in the play. She is portrayed as a woman who is torn between her loyalty to her son and her love for her new husband, King Claudius. She is initially defiant towards Hamlet, refusing to acknowledge his accusations against Claudius. However, as the scene progresses, she becomes increasingly distressed and appears to genuinely regret her actions. It is unclear whether Gertrude is simply yielding to powerful men or whether she is genuinely conflicted about her loyalties.It could be argued that she has a history of yielding to powerful men, given her hasty marriage to Claudius after the death of her first husband. However, it is also possible that she is genuinely in love with Claudius and wants to believe that he is innocent. Overall, Gertrude is a complex and multifaceted character, and different interpretations of her motivations and actions are possible. She may be seen as a victim of circumstance, forced to choose between her love for her son and her loyalty to her new husband, or as a character who is complicit in her own downfall due to her actions and choices.
4. In line 60, we see her explain her reasoning for Hamlet's behavior. What does she think caused it, and how does this show a dynamic to her character we have not seen before?
Gerturde thinks that Hamlet's problem might be dealing with his fathers death followed by the immediate marriage of her and his uncle. The fact that she's acknowledging this shows that she has a better understanding of her son than originally thought, and gives off the impression that maybe she feels a sense of guilt because of how soon the marriage was.
9. How does Hamlet respond to the ghost? Why don't the others want him to go with the ghost? Why can't/don't they stop him?
Hamlet agrees to go with the ghost- though he was warned not too. The others dont want him to go because they believe the ghost will lead Hamlet to kill himself. The others cannot stop Hamlet because he says they will kill them if they do not release him and pronounces how brave he is as he compares himself to the Nemean lion, "And makes each petty artery in his body As hardy as the Nemean lion's nerve." They don't know ghost intentions Feels the ghost is giving him supernatural strength - saying get out of my way to the friends in a way
3. Describe Hamlet's behavior in scenes 2 and 3. He does more than simply act mad.
Hamlet displays petty behavior and a feeling of vengeance rather than just acting insane. He talks nonsense and appears to be enjoying himself just a little bit by keeping the location of the corpse a secret and refusing to give in to their demands.
10. What happens when Hamlet enters? Why doesn't Hamlet kill Claudius then? What is ironic about Hamlet's decision?
Hamlet enters to find Claudius alone, kneeling and apparently praying. Hamlet draws his sword and considers killing Claudius but he ultimately decides not to. There are a few reasons why Hamlet hesitates to kill Claudius at this moment. First, he is unsure whether Claudius is truly repentant of his sins, and he worries that killing him while he is praying would send him to heaven rather than hell. Hamlet may also be motivated by a desire for theatricality and drama. By delaying his revenge, he can build up the tension and suspense, making the eventual confrontation more impactful and meaningful. In this sense, his decision not to kill Claudius is ironic, as he is known for his impulsiveness and rash decisions, yet here he deliberately chooses to bide his time. BTW "Gertrude's Closet" would have been a small, private room for the queen to pray and perhaps read. Nobody would have entered without permission. (It's rather strange that Polonius is there.) People love to stage it in her bedroom, though.
5. Why does Hamlet say he likes Horatio (III.ii.43-63, especially 57-63)? Does Hamlet see Horatio as similar to him or different from him? What might Shakespeare be implying?
Hamlet says he likes Horatio because he respects Horatio's ability to remain on top of things at all times- Horatio tends to have a result of contemplation and inner reflection. Hamlet sees Horatio as different people- by seeing the traits that Hamlet himself does not have. I feel as though Shakespeare definitely uses Horatio's role to be utilitarian to heighten the suspense within Hamlet- as Horatios is Hamlet's ear shown here " Here, sweet lord, at your service"it also appeases the audience ear to communicate the moral of the story.
3. The lovers' exchange starts politely enough, and then Ophelia gives him some of the tokens of his affection he once gave her—he refuses them. Why might he do that? Are his feelings hurt, or is this more supposed madness
Hamlet seems angry when he denies the tokens- he tells his dishonesty of beauty and claims both to have loved Ophelia once and never have loved her at all. In away Hamlet tends to reveal himself more to Ophelia- though I feel he acts like this because he knows that Polonius and Claudius are spying on them He throws this fit and tells her that he never loved her. He states ," This was sometime a paradox, but now the time gives it proof - I did love you once."
2. Describe his behavior toward her. Is this beginning of his faked madness? Or is it real? Notice that Polonius says that she must tell the king immediately. How might Does she feel that?
Hamlet's behavior towards Ophelia is almost a contemporary stereotype of manipulative love. This I feel is the beginning of faked madness, I find it hard to believe if it is real so far- it seems to guide Hamlet with this notion of never loving Ophelia and simply just using her. I believe Ophelia is mixed about telling the King because she could question herself and her and Hamlet's relationship. Ophelia could possibly be in a world of heartbreak.
8. What do you think Hamlet's final line means? How might it be delivered?
Hamlet's last line in the play, "The rest is quiet," is an impactful and strong explanation that has been deciphered in different ways throughout the long term. One potential translation is that Hamlet is at last settled and is prepared to confront his own passing. He has accomplished his objective of avenging his dad's homicide and experiences made harmony with the certainty of his own mortality. The line could likewise propose that Hamlet has found a delivery from the psychological and inner disturbance that has tormented him all through the play. The line is delivered with a sense of resignation, indicating that Hamlet has come to terms with his own death and is ready to face it. Alternatively, it could be delivered with a sense of triumph, indicating that Hamlet has achieved his goal and is finally at peace.
How is Horatio's character developed quickly in this opening scene? What do we already know about him?
Horatios quickly develops into this brave and scholarly character- although he is terrified of the ghost that appears he knows it resembles the King of Denmark as Horatio says, "As thou art to thyself. Such was the very armor he had on, When he the ambitious Norway combated.So frowned he once when in an angry parle He smote the sledded Polacks on the ice. 'Tis strange." As his character develops, Horatio also shows a loyal side as he declares that the ghost can possibly be a warning of misfortune and suggests that they should tell Prince Hamlet.
1. In some versions, this scene is just an extension of the final scene of Act III. Gertrude tells Claudius that Hamlet is "mad as the sea and wind when both contend/ Which is mightier" (4.1.7-8). Was she lying to Hamlet in the last scene, or is she now misleading Claudius? Also, notice that Claudius appears to ask Gertrude to leave with him two or three times (4.1.29, 4.1.39, and 4.1.45). Is this because he is caught up in emotion, or is it because Gertrude hesitates to go with him—is she considering what Hamlet has told Her?
I believe she is deceiving Claudius as well as Hamlet. She misleads Claudius to protect Hamlet because she is thinking about what he told her, and she lies to Hamlet to protect herself and her father quite often.
3.Did Hamlet love Ophelia? Do you think he is responsible for her death?
I feel as though Hamlet did love Ophelia at one point- although because of his mistrust in women I feel did hinder his real emotions toward Ophelia. Do I think he was responsible for her death, possibly? I say possibly because even though he failed to treat her with love, Ophelia should have been strong enough to move on. So I think it's both Ophelia and Hamlet's fault for her Death.
4.Notice that together they carry on a play on words with honest and fair; perhaps an indication of the playfulness of the exchanges they once had? (Now, however, they have lost their playfulness.) Also, Hamlet breaks from iambic pentameter throughout. After essentially raving about how Ophelia is better off without him and all men, he interrupts himself with, "Where is your father?" (III.i.125). Is he suddenly suspicious? When she responds, Ophelia lies (a first for her). Does Hamlet know she is lying? And/or does he suspect he is being spied on? Does that explain how he speaks to her afterwards?
I feel as though he does because his tone completely changes . Though I feel it's a mix of suspicion but also a transferred anger at Gertrude's marriage to Claudius onto Ophelia. Perhaps he tends to transfer his anger from his mother onto all women. O feel it away this "I have heard of your paintings too well enough. God has given you one face, and you make yourself another '' alludes to a two faced situation where he can't trust such a woman - where I get the suspicion from. Hamlet also curses her, predicting a disaster - and again says "to go a nunnery" angry play on words
5. "A little more than kin and less than kind" What does this mean? How might Hamlet deliver the lines? Muttered? Loudly to Claudius and the whole court? To Ophelia? To Gertrude? Aside to only the audience? (No wrong answers here, just explain what you would choose.)
I feel this quote is towards Claudius or anyone really that does Hamlet any harm- I feel he is targeting his family in this one, possibly his mother ? Or maybe he is even saying it himself. I feel Hamlet is suggesting Claudius is too kind to be kind to his step son- perhaps acting off a family role a bit of a stab maybe - almost as if he is trying to say our closest family tends to hurt us the most whereas they should be the kindest out of all people.
6. Do you think Hamlet begins to suspect Rosencrantz and Guildenstern almost immediately, or does it come later?
I think at first Hamlet believes that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern have come to mourn the loss of his father with him, but that it doesn't take him a while to suspect something is off. I think he becomes suspicious of the reason they have come to visit him very soon after they've arrived.
7. We will have a close reading of this soliloquy, but one question to consider in addition to that: What do you think happens in the pauses of this soliloquy? What and how would you have Hamlet deliver this one?
I think in this speech the main theme is existence. He is questioning whether the life he is living is worth living. This is further hinting at the fact that he might truly be crazy. He also questions what happens after death and what the world would be like if people didn't fear death. -feeling hopeless -crying- wandering around the stage -mad at himself
4. How would you have Gertrude deliver her aside? What does this reveal about her character?
I would have Gertrude deliver her aside in a less accusatory way. This reveals that she is a very strong minded and willed character.
5. How would you direct Ophelia? What type of madness, specifically is this? What would she be wearing? Would she be holding flowers, or plucking imaginary flowers from the air? How would she sing these songs?
If I were Ophelia's director, I would make her insanity more apparent and evident. She would be furious, clutching and plucking flowers. Knowing that she is crazy and seeing objects that aren't there, she would sing these songs.
6. First, scan the lines looking for discrepancies in iambic pentameter. Count the number of sentences, then note the number of questions (look for question marks) in the speech, and see where the sentences end and begin—what does that mean? And what is going on in this soliloquy?
In the first soliloquy , it consists of short sentences though at the very end I feel the last two lines are the longest sentences. Although he only adds one question mark of " Must I remember ?" and a lot more explanation points throughout revealing Hamlet's profound despair - pouring such anger and grief as to why the various sentences tend to be scattered. In this soliloquy Hamlet explains everything in his life is fruitless or loathsome.
How do the opening lines (to about line 17, Francisco's exit) establish the mood? Use brief quotes to explain.
In the opening lines of Hamlet- Act 1 Scene 1 this mood of unease and fear is presented. Showcased by these first opening lines: Francisco: "You come most carefully upon your hour" Bernardo: "Tis now struck twelve. Get thee to bed, Francisco." Francisco: "For this relief much thanks. 'Tis bitter cold, And I am sick at heart." Francisco is a bit fearful here.
7. When Claudius leaves, do you think it is because of the play or Hamlet's behavior?
In the play, there's a reenactment of King Hamlet's murder, which is designed to provoke a reaction from Claudius if he is indeed guilty. As the scene unfolds, Claudius becomes increasingly uncomfortable and agitated, which suggests that he may be feeling guilty or at least worried that his secret will be revealed. At the same time, Hamlet's behavior during the play is also provocative and confrontational. He openly mocks and insults Claudius, making it clear that he suspects him of the murder. This could also contribute to Claudius's discomfort and decision to leave.
2. Not only does Hamlet not know whose grave it is (yet), he does not at first know whose bones are being moved. When he discovers that the skull is not of some anonymous lawyer or "Lord such-a-one" but Yorick, who he knew as a child, a court jester who made him laugh, his mood changes as he reflects on morality. Look at what he says about Alexander the Great and Caesar, and connect these ideas with his "To be or not to be" soliloquy.
In the soliloquy, Hamlet is reaching for the question to live or to simply commit suicide and essentially is in a conundrum about what could be worse than his current mental status. Yorick's skull enforces the main themes of mortality in the "to be or not to be '' soliloquy. Hamlet is reminded of how death is an equalizer in a way and such mortality is insignificant. Hence contributing to Hamlet's crisis with the recurring theme of death. Also as to why he mentions Alexander and Caesar because they are a symbolism of earthy power. (they did not leave this "existential crisis" of death).
6. What is Laertes' approach to avenging his father's death (4.7.98)? How does it compare to Hamlet's? How much support does he have? Whom does he initially blame?
Laertes chooses to take revenge on his father by moving without stopping to think about other options. This differs from how Hamlet goes about exacting revenge for the death of his father because Hamlet weighed all the advantages and disadvantages of what he was doing and started to overthink everything he had planned. He first places Hamlet and Claudius at fault.
7. What advice does Laertes give Ophelia? Is it good advice?What does Polonius order Ophelia to do?
Laetes gives advice to Ophelia by saying in a way that the man she adores is using her and will soon leave her in despair. They also advised her that her own heart simply cannot be trusted as Laertes says, Fear it, Ophelia, fear it, my dear sister, And keep you in the rear of your affection, Out of the shot and danger of desire."Polonius orders Ophelia to follow her brother's advice and essentially not to see Hamlet ever again.
8. How would you describe this family? (Especially in comparison to Hamlet's family.) In some productions, Polonius is a doddering fool, in others, sinister, and sometimes he is more of an old man who has lost some of his quickness. Perhaps he is also a politician?
Polonius is almost the same as Claudius - does seem a lot like a politician just like Claudius. I feel Polonius' family is quite dysfunctional in a way- can seem very happy on the outside but really you can see how Polonius uses his children for his own selfish reasons- without knowing how awful it can be for them-and that is where I can get the dysfunctional aspect from. He is very much foolish as he is hypocritical of his own words and does not follow with his own advice, and is definitely lacking quickness as his suspicions fail quite often. The only big difference with Hamlet is that Polonius has a close relationship with his family while Hamlet has a bit of a distant relationship. Laetes and Ophelia have a clear sibling relationship Polonius insults Ophelia, about Hamlet Two siblings have each other- Hamlet does not Laetes is more practical
What is Polonius doing in this scene? Do you find his actions to be justified? Would you include this part of the scene? Why or why not?
Polonius meets with his servant Reynaldo- though he tells him to go to Paris and spy on Laertes. Essentially he charges the servant to find Danes living in Paris and to question them on his whereabouts. No, I do not find his actions to be justified- it is quite an invasion of his own son which could cause several issues. I would include this in the scene because it develops the characters personality and also adds more to the story- and I feel it is not irrelevant at all to the plot, I think it adds more.
6. Do you think Gertrude knowingly drinks the poison? Explain.
Prince Hamlet's mother, Gertrude, appears in Act 5 of William Shakespeare's play "Hamlet." Unaware that the cup she is drinking from is poisoned, Gertrude commits this behavior in front of her son. Laertes, Hamlet's adversary, poisoned the cup as part of a scheme to assassinate Hamlet during a fencing competition. Gertrude consumes the poison, supposing it to be a glass of wine, not realizing that it is poisonous. She takes a sip from the cup to try and soothe her son, who is agitated and upset because of the fencing bout. Gertrude recognizes she has been poisoned and that she is dying after consuming the poison. Gertrude did not knowingly drink the poison, but rather did so unknowingly in an attempt to calm her son.
3. Why have Rosencrantz and Guildenstern come to court? What is their relation to Hamlet? What use does Claudius have for them? Does this remind you of Polonius' use for Reynaldo? Are are there any significant differences?
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern come to the court because they are childhood friends of Hamlet and were sent by Claudius and Gertrude and essentially spy on Hamlet to figure out his behavior further. Claudius uses them to clear Hamlet's intentions and continue to use them - which is very much similar to Reynaldo. Although there is not much of a difference between the two- the spys play the same role unlike the spies who are Hamlet's old friends.I also find it odd how his true friends would go behind Hamlets back- while Reynaldo was that much important to Laertes or Ophelia
4. What, specifically, happened to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, and how does Hamlet justify what he has it been done? (Especially "There's a divinity that shapes our ends . . . )
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern were sent to England with orders to have them killed- I believe. And gets them executed.(Hamlet altered original orders) Hamlet Justifies his actions with the line "Divinity that shapes..." alluding to God as he has a plan for everyone- that everyone's fate is dictated by high power. In other words Hamlet is trying to say that the death of the two spies were not in his power and essentially was fate.
9. What is the content and tone of Hamlet's brief soliloquy that ends the scene?
The soliloquy begins with Hamlet reflecting on the effectiveness of the play that he has watched, noting that it has "caught the conscience of the king." This line suggests that Hamlet believes that the play has succeeded in exposing Claudius' guilt, confirming his suspicions about his father's murder. Hamlet's tone quickly shifts, however, to a self-condemning one. This is as he acknowledges that he himself has not yet taken action to avenge his father's death. Overall, the content and tone of Hamlet's soliloquy reveal the depth of his inner conflict and uncertainty. While he is determined to avenge his father's murder, he is also plagued by self-doubt and a sense of his own inadequacy, which makes his journey toward revenge a complicated and challenging one.
12. Is the ghost an element of Hamlet's madness? Or does Gertrude just did not see him?
There are a few different interpretations of the ghost's appearance in this scene. Some scholars argue that the ghost is a hallucination brought on by Hamlet's mental state. They point to Hamlet's erratic behavior throughout the play and suggest that his belief in the ghost is a symptom of his madness. On the other hand, others argue that the ghost is a real supernatural entity and that Gertrude cannot see him because she is not privy to the same information that Hamlet has. This interpretation suggests that the ghost is a messenger from beyond the grave, sent to give Hamlet vital information about his fathers murder and urge him to seek revenge.
1. What does Hamlet do that frightens her so much that she suspects he will kill her? How might this be staged? Act 3 scene 4
There are a few moments during this scene that could be interpreted as frightening or threatening to Gertrude, causing her to suspect that Hamlet might kill her. One of the most notable moments is when Hamlet sees the ghost of his father and Gertrude cannot see it. This moment could be staged in a way that emphasizes the supernatural and eerie aspects of the play, with Hamlet staring intently at something that is invisible to Gertrude. This could create a sense of tension and unease, as Gertrude realizes that Hamlet is seeing something that she cannot. Finally, there is a moment when Hamlet asks Gertrude to confess her sins and she cries out for help. This moment could be staged with Gertrude scrambling to get away from Hamlet, perhaps backing away from him or trying to flee the room. This would create a sense of urgency and danger, as Gertrude fears for her safety and Hamlet's behavior becomes more erratic. *confronts her *corner and confront
7. Re-read where Claudius dies. Does Hamlet simply wound him with the sword (is there poison left?), or does Does he attack again? Some productions have him force Claudius drinks the poison. What would you do? How Would you stage it?
There are various interpretations and strategies that might be used while creating this scene. In some versions, Hamlet decides to have Claudius consume the tainted wine as an additional form of vengeance. Although this isn't stated specifically in the text, some would argue that it lessens the impact of Hamlet's choice to kill Claudius himself in the end. I would organize the scene with an emphasis on the extreme profound showdown among Hamlet and Claudius, featuring the heaviness of the disclosure that Claudius is liable for the demise of Hamlet's dad. I would stress the pressure and anticipation existing apart from everything else, with Hamlet at last choosing to assume control over equity and kill Claudius himself. The real killing could be organized in different ways, contingent upon the chief's translation and vision for the creation.
4. Where does Hamlet stand during his uncle's speech? What is he doing? Is he visible to the audience throughout?
Through Hamlet's uncle's speech he is not visible to the audience almost until the very end as he is layered with black clothing- complete opposite of his audience. Hamlet is filled with agony from his fathers death and views Claudius in a negative manner. Not only that but he is furious with his Mother for even being with Claudius two months after his fathers death.
5. This is our first view of Hamlet as a madman. How do you think he would be dressed? What book does he have in his hand? We've now had several different explanations of Hamlet's madness: love (2.1.86, 103), his father's death (2.2.8), and that plus "our o'erhasty marriage" (2.2.57). Are people content with these explanations? Are you? Is he faking it, or is he losing it?
We can expect him to care little about his appearance after becoming a mad man. I partially believe that he is losing it, but I feel as though he is exaggerating the madness to some degree as a sort of revenge towards Claudius for killing his father.
5. Hamlet apologizes (genuinely) to Laertes when they meet for the duel. How does Laertes respond? How does his agreement with Claudius probably influence His response?
When Hamlet apologizes to Laertes before their duel, Laertes initially responds with anger and a desire for revenge. He feels that Hamlet is insincere and that his apology is simply a ploy to avoid the duel. Laertes is also influenced by his agreement with Claudius to kill Hamlet, which makes him more eager to carry out the task. As the scene advances they take part in the duel, but Laertes then begins to see Hamlet's truthfulness and understand to which he had been uncontrolled by Cladius. Laertes' support of Caldius undoubtedly affects how he initially reacts to Hamlet's apology. He sees Hamlet as a barrier to his objectives because he is determined to complete his assignment. Nevertheless, as the action moves along Laertes gets to know Hamlet more, he starts to view him more than a hindrance and realizes the devastation Claudius has done to both of them. Laertes eventually asks for Hamlet's forgiveness.
7. What happened to Ophelia? Did she kill herself, or is her death accidental (based on this description; her death gets a different spin in 5.1)?
When requested to spy on Hamlet, Ophelia killed herself in retaliation, I believe. The first version of Ophelia paints her as having lost her mind as a result of the passing of her father. In the second interpretation, Ophelia is depicted as a depressed, lonely person who is suffering as a result of the passing of her father. She is depicted in the previous iteration as being imprisoned in their minds.
