Distance: Plot/Events
This family member leaves for “El Otro Lado,” setting the story’s central conflict in motion.
Who is Reyna’s father?
This theme centers on longing for family members who are physically distant.
What is separation/family distance?
The ghost reveals that King Hamlet was killed by this character.
Who is Claudius?
“To be or not to be” is a reflection on this central idea.
What is life vs. death (or existence)?
A contrast between expectation and reality.
What is irony?
Reyna and her siblings must travel to this country to reunite with their parents.
What is the United States?
Reyna’s mother undergoes this major change after returning from the U.S.
What is becoming more distant/bitter/overwhelmed?
Hamlet pretends to be this in order to investigate the truth.
What is madness (or insanity)?
“Something is rotten in the state of Denmark” suggests this.
What is corruption/decay in society?
A struggle between opposing forces in a story.
What is conflict?
Reyna is primarily raised by this family member in Mexico.
Who is Abuela Evila
This theme is shown through Reyna’s determination to succeed in school despite obstacles.
What is perseverance (or resilience)?
This character is killed accidentally by Hamlet while hiding behind a curtain.
Who is Polonius?
Hamlet delays revenge primarily because of this internal struggle.
What is uncertainty/doubt/moral hesitation?
Language that appeals to the senses.
What is imagery?
This major challenge shapes Reyna’s childhood and motivates her desire for education.
What is poverty?
Mami can be described as both loving and flawed—this creates this type of conflict.
What is internal/emotional conflict (or complicated family dynamics)?
This event is used by Hamlet to “catch the conscience of the king.”
What is the play within a play?
Ophelia’s descent into madness highlights this broader theme.
What is the impact of power/control/patriarchy (or emotional instability)?
A reference to another text, event, or idea.
What is an allusion?
This is the cousin who primarily bullies the siblings.
Who is Elida?
Reyna’s story ultimately suggests that education represents this larger idea.
What is opportunity/freedom/a path to a better future?
At the end of the play, control of Denmark goes to this character.
Who is Fortinbras?
Hamlet’s fatal flaw can best be described as this trait.
What is indecision (or overthinking)?
When the audience knows something the characters do not.
What is dramatic irony?