Setting Details
According to the dialogue between the guards, and later Marcellus and Horatio, what is the time and weather in the setting when the ghost appears?
Midnight / cold
What larger concern does Hamlet indicate initially prevents him from committing suicide (Act I soliloquy)?
It is against God’s canon
King Claudius addresses the court regarding the major changes occurring in Denmark. Regarding King Hamlet, he states:
The death of the former king is sad, but the kingdom must move on
What motivation most likely prompts Laertes’ advice to Ophelia?
A desire to protect her reputation
Why does Hamlet imply that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are sponges?
He knows their loyalty has already been bought by the king
What mood is the setting of the opening scene intended to convey to the audience?
Eerie and ominous
What aspect of Hamlet’s nature is prominent in his reaction to Horatio’s revelation at the end of I.I:
Curiosity
King Claudius addresses the court regarding the major changes occurring in Denmark. Regarding Queen Gertrude, he says:
Their marriage is in the best interest of the kingdom - it’s a political move, and nothing more
What advice does Polonius impart to Laertes about speaking his thoughts to others when he leaves to go back to France?
To listen often and avoid speaking his mind when his opinion isn't asked
What does Claudius insist is the cause of Hamlet’s affliction?
Loss of his father
Although the guards have minor roles, they play a major part in propelling the plot of the play. In what way do the guards contribute to establishing the major conflict?
They agree to tell Hamlet about the ghost
What behavior is demonstrated in Hamlet’s strange antics when he meets Polonius in the library?
Calling Polonius names
King Claudius addresses the court regarding the major changes occurring in Denmark. Regarding Fortinbras, he states:
He plans to stop his advance by appealing to his old, bedridden uncle
What primary reason prompts Polonius to command Ophelia to avoid Hamlet?
He is of royal blood
What quality of Polonius’s character is implied in his request of Reynaldo?
Nosy/untrustworthy nature
Why must the ghost suffer in the fires of purgatory during the day and walk the earth at night?
Did not receive his last rites
Hamlet’s request regarding the performance of the play highlights what characteristic?
Uncertainty
What motif is mirrored in the request that Polonius makes of Reynaldo and that King Claudius and Queen Gertrude make of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?
Spying/surveillance state
In attempting to guide Hamlet’s handling of the situation, what does the ghost tell Hamlet to do in regard to Claudius?
Kill him in vengeance
What is Polonius’ diagnosis of the source of Hamlet’s perceived madness?
Loss of Ophelia
What information does the Ghost present to Hamlet in their dialogue that contradicts the official story of his death?
He was murdered - poisoned - by Claudius
What two things does Hamlet hope to accomplish with the play?
Observe if Claudius acts guilty
Determine if the ghost can be trusted
How do the adults justify their requests?
It's for the good of their children
In attempting to guide Hamlet’s handling of the situation, what does the ghost tell Hamlet to do in regard to Gertrude?
Leave her for Heaven to deal with
What is the name of the play to be presented to the King?
The Murder of Gonzago