Beggining
This emotion defines Hamlet after his father’s death and shapes his early behavior.
What is grief?
Hamlet arranges this theatrical event to confirm Claudius’s guilt.
What is the play within the play (or “The Mousetrap”)?
Hamlet reflects on mortality in the graveyard while holding this object.
What is Yorick’s skull?
Hamlet’s complicated feelings toward this woman stem from her quick marriage to Claudius.
Who is Gertrude?
Hamlet repeatedly wrestles with this theme concerning life, death, and existence.
What is the meaning of life? (Mortality)
In his first soliloquy, Hamlet describes Denmark using this word to show how corrupt and unpleasant he thinks it is.
What is an “unweeded garden“?
This is one of Hamlet’s most famous lines.
What is ”to be or not to be”?
This action allows Hamlet to complete his revenge at the end of the play.
What is killing Claudius?
Hamlet’s harsh rejection of this character contributes to her emotional decline.
Who is Ophelia?
The ghost’s command highlights this central theme of the play.
What is revenge?
The appearance of this supernatural figure sets Hamlet on his path toward revenge.
What is his father‘s ghost?
Hamlet refuses to kill Claudius while he is praying because of this concern.
What is fear of sending Claudius to heaven?
Hamlet asks this character to tell his story after his death.
Who is Horatio?
This loyal friend remains by Hamlet’s side and tells his story at the end.
Who is Horatio?
Hamlet’s fake madness and spying characters explore this theme.
What is appearance vs. reality?
Hamlet pretends to have this type of behavior to hide his true intentions.
What is madness(or insanity)?
This impulsive act marks a turning point in Hamlet’s behavior
What is stabbing through the curtain (or killing Polonius)?
Compared to the beginning, Hamlet ultimately shows this overall development
What is acceptance of death (or resolution/maturity)?
Hamlet seeks revenge against this uncle who murdered his father.
Who is Claudius?
Claudius’s secret crime shows how this theme shapes the action of the play.
What is corruption?
Hamlet’s attitude toward Claudius at the beginning can best be described with this feeling.
What is resentment?
Hamlet’s harsh treatment of Ophelia demonstrates this darker character trait.
What is cruelty (or emotional harshness)?
Hamlet apologizes to Laertes before their duel, showing this change in his character compared to earlier acts.
What is humility (or maturity)?
This character seeks revenge against Hamlet for killing his father.
Who is Laertes?
Hamlet’s hesitation to act reflects this internal struggle.
What is indecision (or moral conflict)?