Thank You for Purchasing the Downloadable Teaching Unit for

HAMLET

THANK YOU!

JUST FOR YOUTo help you get even more value out of this Unit, we’d like to offer you an exclusive discount of10 % more off10 % off

the already-discounted paperback.

add the book to your cart, and use the coupon code DTU3802 to get the best price on the paperback version of this book.

One order per customer.

Prestwick House reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time.

CLICK HERE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE,

HamletOBJECTIVES

By the end of this Unit, the student will be able to:

1. identify and discuss the characteristics of this play that mark it as a Shakespeareantragedy.

2. discuss the major themes in the play:

A. Each person must experience evil, including his or her own contamination as a result of it.

B. People are not always what they seem; they often play a deceptive part.

C. Revenge is not always justifiable for an individual.

D. The psychological state of depression, or thinking too much, can prevent a person from taking practical action.

3. discuss Shakespeare’s style, including the use of figurative language, symbolism, andthe dramatic techniques of soliloquy, aside, dramatic foil, and allusion.

4. identify the aspects of Hamlet that classify it as a revenge tragedy.

5. understand Hamlet’s varying state of mind and how his condition relates to hissoliloquies.

6. discuss Hamlet and Ophelia’s relationship, including what aspects lead to her madnessand death.

7. describe the importance of the ghost as it relates to Hamlet and the themes of the play.

HamletQuestions for Essay and Discussion

1. Does Hamlet believe in divine justice? Identify evidence of Hamlet’s religious or supernaturalbeliefs.

2. Discuss the motif of sickness in terms of its literal and symbolic functions in this tragedy.

3. Compare and contrast the father/son relationships that appear in the play: those ofHamlet and his father(s), Laertes and Polonius, and Fortinbras and Old Norway.

4. Hamlet is famous for his long, agonizing moral deliberations. Is Hamlet truly con-cerned with doing the right thing, or is he just indecisive?

5. Identify instances of espionage in the play. Which characters act as spies, and why?

6. Analyze any one of Hamlet’s soliloquies. Rephrase it and make his thoughts clear.

7. What do the characters say about words, their meanings, and how they are used?Identify passages in which characters analyze one another’s speech.

8. Who is Horatio, and what purpose(s) does he serve in the play? Compare and contrasthis nature with that of Hamlet.

9. Does Hamlet feel that human reason is a gift or a curse? What responsibilities accom-pany the human capacity for reason?

10. The motif of destiny appears throughout the play. Are the characters in Hamlet con-trolled by fate or by their own choices?

11. Describe Hamlet’s behavior toward Ophelia, and his reaction to her death. Make sure toinclude how Ophelia believes Hamlet treats her. Why might Hamlet behave this way?

12. Why does Hamlet postpone killing Claudius? What does this incident reveal aboutHamlet’s character?

13. Do you think Hamlet’s “antic disposition” is genuine insanity, or is it something else?Support your belief with textual evidence.

14. In what light do the other characters view Hamlet after his death?

15. Revenge, both sought and postponed, is a major theme in Hamlet. Aside from Hamlet,which other characters seek vengeance?

16. Look at the character of Polonius and determine whether he is a fool or simply an oldman who is wise, but long-winded. Use passages from the play to support your opinion.

17. What were Gertrude’s actual motives in marrying Claudius? For this answer, lookingbeyond the play, into what happened before it begins, may be helpful. If you use thistechnique, you should still support your reasoning with textual evidence.

Hamlet

QUIZ

Act I

Quotes: For the three quotes, identify the speaker and the situation or meaning:

1. “Neither a borrower nor a lender be:…This above all,- to thine own self be true;”

2. “…meet it is I set it down, That one may smile, and smile, and be a villain;”

3. “The serpent that did sting thy father’s life,Now wears his crown.”

4. Write a paragraph to describe Hamlet’s situation regarding his parents, his rights to thethrone, his oath to the ghost, and his state of mind. Include the attitude other peoplehave toward him.

Hamlet

QUIZ

Act II

For the three quotes, identify the speaker and the situation or meaning:

1. “Lord Hamlet,…with a look so piteous in purport,As if he had been loosed out of hellTo speak of horrors,–he comes before me.”

2. “But what might you think, When I had seen this hot love on the wing-As I perceived it, I must tell you that, . . . what might you,Or my dear Majesty your Queen here, think,If I had play’d the desk or table-book;Or given my heart a winking, mute, and dumb,Or look’d upon this love with idle sight;What might you think?”

What is revealed about the speaker in the above quote?

3. “…the play’s the thing, Wherein I’ll catch the conscience of the king.”

4. Write a short paragraph to describe Hamlet’s state of mind, giving examples. What doeshe do and say?

5. Explain “antic disposition,” now that you have had an opportunity to judge Hamlet’sbehavior.

6. How does Hamlet treat Polonius?

HamletQUIZ

Act III, Scene I

For the four quotes, identify the speaker and the situation or meaning:

1. “The harlot’s cheek, beautied with plast’ring art,Is not more ugly to the thing that helps it,Than is my deed to my most painted word:O, heavy burden!”

2. “I have heard of your paintings too, well enough; God hath given you one face, andyou make yourselves another: you jig, you amble, and you lisp,…”

3. “And I, of ladies most deject and wretched,That suck’d the honey of his music vows,Now see that noble and most sovereign reason,Like sweet bells jangled, out of tune and harsh;”

4. “Madness in great ones must not unwatch’d go.”

5. How does Hamlet treat Ophelia?

6. Describe Hamlet’s state of mind in his most famous soliloquy.

HamletQUIZ

Act III, Scene II

For the three quotes, identify the speaker and the situation or meaning:

1. “Give me that man That is not passion’s slave, and I will wear him In my heart’s core, ay, in my heart of heart, As I do thee.”

2. “The lady doth protest too much, methinks.”

3. “Let me be cruel, not unnatural; I will speak daggers to her, but use none;”

4. Describe the relationship between Horatio and Hamlet. How does Hamlet feel aboutHoratio? Why?

5. How does Gertrude react to the play? How does Claudius react?

6. Describe Hamlet’s state of mind at the end of this emotional scene.

HamletQUIZ

Act III, Scenes III and IV

For the four quotes, identify the speaker and the situation or meaning:

1. “I…do this same villain send to heav’n.O, this is hire and salary, not revenge…To take him in the purging of his soul,When he is fit and season’d for his passage? No!Up, sword;”

2. “May one be pardon’d, and retain the offense?”

3. “I must be cruel, only to be kind:Thus bad begins, and worse remains behind.”

4. “O, Hamlet! thou hast cleft my heart in twain.”

5. Describe Gertrude’s reaction to Hamlet.

6. Explain Hamlet’s position at the end of this act. Consider many different aspects.

HamletQUIZ

Act IV

For the three quotes, identify the speaker and the situation or meaning:

1. “Sure, he that made us with such large discourse,Looking before and after, gave us not That capability and god-like reasonTo fust in us unus’d. Now, whether it be Bestial oblivion, or some craven scruple Of thinking too precisely on the event,”

2. “O, this is the poison of deep grief; it springs All from her father’s death.”

3. “To hell, allegiance! vows, to the blackest devil!Conscience and grace, to the profoundest pit!I dare damnation: to this point I stand,That both the worlds I give to negligence,Let come what comes; only I’ll be reveng’dMost thoroughly for my father.”

4. In what three ways do the King and Laertes plan to kill Hamlet?

5. Compare the reactions of Fortinbras, Laertes, and Hamlet to “outrageous fortune” (i.e.the death of their fathers and human hypocrisy). Whose reaction shows the most:• wisdom• control of emotions• practicality• strength of purpose• righteousness (acting in a just, upright manner, virtuous, morally • right, or justifiable)

HamletQUIZ

Acts

For the three quotes, identify the speaker and the situation or meaning:

1. “Now get you to my lady’s chamber, and tell her, let her paint an inch thick, to thisfavour she must come; make her laugh at that.”

2. “This is mere madness,And thus a while the fit will work on him;Anon…His silence will sit drooping.”

3. “Was’t Hamlet wrong’d Laertes? Never, Hamlet:If Hamlet from himself be ta’en away,And when he’s not himself does wrong Laertes,Then Hamlet does it not,…Who does it then? His madness;”

4. Explain how Hamlet, Laertes, Gertrude, and Claudius die.

5. Why does Horatio not kill himself?

HamletQUIZ ANSWERS

Act I

1. Act I, Scene III. Polonius is giving advice to his son Laertes before Laertes leaves for France.

2. Act I, Scene V. Soliloquy. Hamlet speaks about Claudius after seeing the ghost. He learnsthat Claudius murdered old Hamlet. Hamlet is pointing out that Claudius seems caring butis evil.

3. Act I, Scene V. The ghost of Old Hamlet is speaking to Hamlet, telling Hamlet the details ofhis death.

4. Answers should include:intense grief over father’s deathdisgust with motherdisturbed that he will have to “set things right” fear and wonder at the ghost and the information from the ghostcontempt for Claudius

Act II

1. Act II, Scene I. Ophelia is describing Hamlet to her father. Hamlet is behaving in a wild,bizarre manner. He is unkempt and pitiful.

2. Act II, Scene II. Polonius is explaining to Claudius why he told Ophelia to reject Hamlet.

Polonius’ main concern is his own reputation. He is not considering his daughter or herfeelings.

3. Act II, Scene II. Hamlet, in another soliloquy, questions the truthfulness of the ghost; it maybe the devil tricking him into murdering Claudius. He needs objective evidence of Claudius’guilt, and Hamlet’s altered play will prove or disprove Claudius’ murder.

4. Hamlet is angry with himself because he hasn’t acted against Claudius, he is questioning theghost’s honesty, and he is thinking instead of acting.

5. The “antic disposition” is questionable:Is he mad or pretending to be mad?Is he mad or just telling himself he is not?Will behaving like a madman really convince Claudius that Hamlet is no danger and

give Hamlet time to find objective evidence to validate the ghost?

6. He treats Polonius with complete contempt. This is a deliberate act to confuse Polonius as toHamlet’s sanity. Hamlet’s brilliant mind and clever wordplay keep Polonius off-guard,unsure, and bewildered.

Act III, Scene I

1. Act III, Scene I. Claudius, an aside. He is feeling guilt for his crime.

2. Act III, Scene I. Hamlet to Ophelia. He is raging at her about her falseness. He is alsospeaking about women in general, including Gertrude.

3. Act III, Scene I. Ophelia, alone on stage after Hamlet leaves. She is suffering because shehad believed Hamlet loved her and because she believes Hamlet is insane.

4. Act III, Scene I. Claudius to Polonius. Claudius feels the threat of Hamlet. Hamlet needs tobe sent away to England.

5. He treats her with scorn. He feels her love for him was as shallow as his mother’s love forhis father. She allowed herself to be manipulated by both her father and Claudius, just ashis mother has been manipulated.

6. “To be or not to be…” Hamlet has both a desire for death and a fear of death. He iswondering if he should use force against what is wrong and become soiled himself, or if heshould be passive. He fears death because he might dream. His conscience has made him acoward.

Act III, Scene II

1. Act III, Scene II. Hamlet to Horatio. Hamlet is expressing his high regard for Horatio. Herespects Horatio because Horatio has self-control and he doesn’t let his emotions controlhim.

2. Act III, Scene II. Gertrude, in response to Hamlet’s question of how she likes the play.

3. Act III, Scene II. Hamlet, soliloquy. He is going to see his mother to confront her with herwrongdoing. He wants to sway her to his side against Claudius. He must not harm her (theghost’s command), but he must speak sharply to her.

4. It is one of complete trust. Horatio can be trusted because his “reason” dominates hisbehavior. Horatio is a philosopher and a student, much as Hamlet himself is.

5. She is concerned because Hamlet has offended Claudius. She is confused and worried aboutHamlet’s behavior.

6. He knows he must go to England. He plans to outwit Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. Hebecomes rational as he pleads with his mother to turn away from Claudius. He says that heis not insane, “but mad in craft.” Hamlet is eager to outsmart Claudius and not overly sadto have killed Polonius.

Act III, Scenes III and IV

1. Act III, Scene III. Hamlet is ready to kill Claudius, certain of the King’s guilt. Claudius,however, is praying.

2. Act III, Scene III. Claudius’ soliloquy. Can he be forgiven for killing his brother while he stillkeeps the crown? He knows he can not.

3. Act III, Scene IV. Hamlet to his mother. He is telling her the painful truth to save her fromsin, etc. He had not wanted to kill Polonius, but more evil will occur.

4. Act III, Scene IV. Gertrude to Hamlet. He has broken her heart and hurt her with his words,lunacy, and cruelty. It is possible that she has realized her sins.

5. Mainly she is fearful of him and has intense concern over his madness and what shebelieves are hallucinations.

6. a. He is being sent to England; the King is aware that Hamlet knows about the murder.b. He is positive of the King’s guilt.c. Horatio is also convinced of the King’s guilt.d. He feels obligated to revenge his father’s death, but when he has

the opportunity to murder Claudius, he can’t.e. He feels that the ghost believes him to be weak and unable to act.f. He knows that there will be more deaths.g. He may be unsure of his own sanity because Gertrude did not see the ghost.

Act IV

1. Act IV, Scene IV. Hamlet, soliloquy. Hamlet realizes he has spent too much time thinking,not acting. He realizes that to think is to use his greatest gift: reason.

2. Act IV, Scene V. Claudius to Gertrude about Ophelia’s madness. He is sorry for the indirectconsequences of his evil act.

3. Act IV, Scene V. Laertes is speaking to Claudius. He is demanding to know how his fatherdied. He will avenge his father’s death no matter what the consequences.

4. Laertes will wound Hamlet with a poisoned rapier during the duel. Hamlet will use ablunted rapier, but Laertes will pick up a pointed sword. The King will offer Hamletpoisoned wine.

5. Fortinbras: • wisdom - gains public support, uses no false appearance• control of emotions - honors uncle’s wish that he not attack

Denmark• practicality• strength of purpose

Hamlet: • righteousness - finds it difficult to go against the Christian

ideal which says to leave vengeance to GodLaertes:

• strength of purpose - won’t take time to think

Act V

1. Act V, Scene I. Hamlet to the skull of Yorick. Hamlet is musing on death, claiming that nomatter how a person (in this case Gertrude or Ophelia) tries to look pleasing to the eye, shewill still end up in a grave.

2. Act V, Scene I. Gertrude to Laertes. She wants the fighting to stop and tells Laertes thatHamlet is simply insane and will calm down soon.

3. Act V Scene I. Hamlet to Laertes. He is explaining (or lying) that it was not really Hamletwho killed Polonius and is responsible for Ophelia’s death; it is Hamlet’s lunacy.

4. Hamlet is wounded by Laertes’ poisoned sword. Laertes, after Hamlet grabs the poisoned sword, is also wounded by it. Gertrude accidentally drinks the poison Claudius had prepared for Hamlet. Claudius isstabbed by Hamlet and is then forced to drink the poison.

5. Horatio wants to commit suicide, but Hamlet prevents it because someone must remain aliveto tell Hamlet’s story truthfully.

I. Multiple Choice

1. Hamlet feels nothing but contempt forA. Ophelia.B. Gertrude.C. Horatio.D. Polonius.

2. Claudius is able to manipulateA. Laertes.B. Polonius.C. Gertrude.D. All of the above

3. The gravediggers suggest the idea thatA. death is inevitable.B. life is meaningless.C. Hamlet is mad.D. evil is punished.

4. Hamlet admiresA. Rosencrantz.B. Horatio.C. Osric.D. Gertrude.

5. Claudius decides to send Hamlet to England becauseA. Hamlet is hurting Gertrude.B. Hamlet needs a change.C. Hamlet is a threat to Claudius.D. Hamlet is inspiring too much sympathy from the people of Denmark.

6. Claudius refers to his deeds asA. noble.B. rank.C. the result of his drinking.D. necessary in order to protect Denmark from Norway.

7. Gertrude tells Hamlet thatA. he should be king.B. he has broken her heart.C. he made her realize her shame.D. Both B and C

8. Hamlet kills Laertes becauseA. Laertes deserted Ophelia.B. the swords are switched.C. he realizes that Laertes is a friend of Claudius.D. he knows Laertes is delivering Hamlet’s death orders to England.

9. The ghost tells HamletA. not to be unkind to Gertrude.B. Denmark will be attacked by Norway.C. Horatio is not to be trusted.D. Claudius will try to kill young Hamlet, too.

10. Who requests the play, “The Murder of Gonzago,” to be performed?A. HoratioB. HamletC. RosencrantzD. Polonius

11. Polonius is convinced that Hamlet isA. a danger to Claudius.B. in love with Ophelia.C. beyond all hope of saving.D. not good enough for Ophelia.

12. FortinbrasA. is a friend of Laertes.B. is a school friend of Hamlet.C. is a political friend of Claudius.D. is a foil to Hamlet.

13. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern areA. convinced that Hamlet is their friend.B. killed by pirates before they arrive in England.C. agents of Claudius.D. All of the above

14. Hamlet confides inA. Gertrude.B. Horatio.C. Fortinbras.D. Rosencrantz.

15. Ophelia was driven mad in part byA. her father’s death.B. her brother’s treachery.C. her father’s refusal to let her comfort Hamlet.D. All of the above

16. Hamlet believes women areA. fragile and need protection.B. not capable of schemes.C. weak and deceptive.D. selfish.

17. Hamlet wants Horatio toA. kill the King for him.B. remind Gertrude of her duty toward Ophelia and Denmark.C. leave Denmark for his own protection.D. confirm his own suspicions about the King.

18. Hamlet’s “antic disposition” A. is one of many deceptive appearances in the play.B. convinces Polonius that Hamlet will take advantage of his daughter.C. worries Horatio.D. causes Laertes to plot with Claudius.

II. Matching (one is used twice):

A. Ophelia E. LaertesB. Hamlet F. GertrudeC. Claudius G. FortinbrasD. Horatio H. Yorick

19. lives because a friend will not let him drink poison

20. dies by drowning

21. becomes the King of Denmark after Claudius’ death

22. apologizes to Laertes

23. dies from drinking poisoned wine

24. increases Hamlet’s awareness of death in the graveyard scene

25. is a loyal friend to Hamlet

III. Literary Terms: Identify the literary term which is used in the following quotes. Oneterm is not used.

A. litotes D. metaphorB. hyperbole E. alliterationC. personification F. metonymy

26. “The cock that is the trumpet of the morn”

27. “…the morn in russet mantle clad, walks o’er the dew of yon high eastern hill.”

28. “I do not set my life at a pin’s fee.”

29. “I could be bounded in a nut shell and count myself a king of infinite space…”

30. “Marry, this is miching mallecho; it means mischief.”

IV. Quotations: Explain four of the following quotes by:(1) identifying the speaker,(2) the situation, and(3) explaining the meaning

31. “What a piece of work is a man! how noble in reason! how infinite in faculty! in formand moving how express and admirable! in action how like an angel…”

32. “all that lives must die, Passing through nature to eternity.”

33. “‘Tis dangerous when the baser nature comes Between the pass and fell incensed points Of mighty opposites.”

34. “For there is nothing either good nor bad, but thinking makes it so: to me it is aprison.”

35. “To die, to sleep;– To sleep, perchance, to dream;– ay, there’s the rub; . . .”

Essay Questions: (Answer any two)

1. Hamlet is a play about revenge. Is revenge justified? Why is it or why is it not? Supportyour convictions by references to the play.

2. Discuss the causes of Ophelia’s mental breakdown. Support your answer.

3. How is it possible to interpret Hamlet’s violent denunciations of Ophelia and of hismother as unconscious denunciations of himself?

4. What images predominate in Hamlet? Refer to as many categories as you can and givespecific examples (corruption, death, etc.).

5. What Hamlet has to do may be necessary, or even just, but it is a defilement of his ownideals, and difficult for him to justify. How is Hamlet a tragedy?

6. Of all the ideas or themes presented in Hamlet, which is most meaningful to you?Explain why by relating it to personal experience.

HamletTEST ANSWERS

I. Multiple Choice1. D 7. D 13. C2. D 8. B 14. B3. A 9. A 15. A4. B 10. B 16. C5. C 11. B 17. D6. B 12. D 18. A

II. Matching III. Literary Terms19. D 26. D20. A 27. C21. G 28. A22. B 29. B23. F 30. E24. H25. D

IV. Quotations:

31. Act II, Scene II. Hamlet is speaking to Rosencrantz of his depression and loss of faith inman. Hamlet, the idealist, felt man was next to the angels in his capacity to think.Now, Hamlet has become disillusioned.

32. Act I, Scene II. Gertrude is speaking to Hamlet. She is telling him to accept his father’sdeath.

33. Act V, Scene II. Hamlet is justifying to Horatio the fact that he had sent Rosencrantzand Guildenstern to their death. According to Hamlet, these men chose to help theKing against Hamlet. They put themselves in the middle between two mighty powersin conflict.

34. Act II, Scene II. Hamlet is speaking to Rosencrantz. Hamlet is saying Denmark is theworst of confines; Rosencrantz replies that he doesn’t see Denmark that way at all.Hamlet concludes that it’s the attitude that a person takes toward something thatmakes it what it is.

35. Act III, Scene I. Hamlet’s soliloquy. He is wishing he could die, but what prevents him(the rub) is the unknown quality of death. He is not sure if it is possible that peopledream after they die.

Terms and Definitions

Allusion - a reference to a person, place, poem, book, event, etc., which is not part of thestory, that the author expects the reader will recognize. Example: In The GlassMenagerie, Tom speaks of “Chamberlain’s umbrella,” a reference to British PrimeMinister Neville Chamberlain.

Aside - words spoken by an actor in such a way that they are heard by the audience butsupposedly not by the other actors. These words usually represent the inner thoughtsof the speaker. Example: In Hamlet, Polonius says in an aside, while talking withHamlet, “Though this be madness, yet there is method in it.”

Blank Verse - unrhymed lines of poetry written in iambic pentameter. Example:Was this´ the face´ that launched´ a thou´sand ships´And burned´ the top´less towers´ of Il´i um´?

–Dr. Faustus

Figurative Language- words and phrases that have meanings different from their usual onesin order to create a poetic and/or literary effect. Examples: Love certainly has its ownseasons; crumbling cities made of matches.

Foil - a character whose qualities or actions usually serve to emphasize the actions orqualities of the main character, the protagonist, by providing a strong contrast. Onoccasion, the foil is used as a contrast to a character other than the main one.Examples: Hotspur contrasts Prince Hal in Shakespeare’s Henry IV, Part I; theRoadrunner of cartoon fame uses Wile E. Coyote as his foil.

Irony - a perception of inconsistency, sometimes humorous, in which the significance andunderstanding of a statement or event is changed by its context. Example: Thefirehouse burned down.• Dramatic Irony - the audience or reader knows more about a character’s situation

than the character does and knows that the character’s understanding is incorrect. Example: In Medea, Creon asks, “What atrocities could she commit in one day?” The reader, however, knows Medea will destroy her family and Creon’s by day’s end.

• Structural Irony – the use of a naïve hero, whose incorrect perceptions differ from the reader’s correct ones. Example: Huck Finn.

• Verbal Irony - a discrepancy between what is said and what is really meant; sarcasm.Example: A large man whose nickname is “Tiny.”

Malapropism - misuse of a word for humorous effect. The term comes from a characternamed Mrs. Malaprop in The Rivals, by Sheridan. Example: A lawyer has“obfuscations” to the question, rather than “objections.”

Metaphor - a comparison of two things that are basically dissimilar in which one is describedin terms of the other. Example: The moon, a haunting lantern, shone through theclouds.

Pun - an expression that achieves emphasis or humor by utilizing:• two distinctly different meanings for the same word. Example: “play” meaning

“fun” and “play” meaning a performance on stage.or

• two similar sounding words. Example: close/clothes. Example: In Romeo and Juliet,one character, Mercutio, says after being fatally stabbed, “Ask for me tomorrow andyou will find me a grave man.”

Simile - a comparison between two different things using either like or as. Examples: I am ashungry as a horse. The huge trees broke like twigs during the hurricane.

Soliloquy - lines in a play in which a character reveals thoughts to the audience, but not tothe other characters; it is usually longer than an aside and not directed at the audience.Example: Hamlet’s famous “To be or not to be” speech.

Hamlet

Study GuideTeacher’s Copy

Act I, Scene I

Vocabularyrivals-companionssometimes-previouslymart-tradeimpress-draftmoist star-moonpartisan-sword

1. What exposition is provided in this scene? Include an explanation of the quarrel withNorway.

The ghost of late King Hamlet has appeared in armor. The ghost has been seen by Marcellusand Bernardo. They have, in turn, brought Horatio, an educated friend, who mayunderstand this mystery. The late King Hamlet of Denmark defeated and killed old KingFortinbras of Norway. King Fortinbras had been jealous of Hamlet and had challengedHamlet to combat, staking all his possessions on the outcome. Now, the young Fortinbrashas raised an army to reclaim his father’s lands from Denmark.

2. What atmosphere is created by this scene? How?

Emotions of fear and dread are suggested by the “bitter cold” and people who are “sick atheart.” Frightening apparitions are described. Attack by Fortinbras is threatened.

3. Why has Horatio been asked to join the soldiers in the night watch? What has hedecided to do?

Horatio is educated and skeptical. He proves the ghost is real, not a hallucination. Horatiois a scholar capable of communication with a ghost. He decides to tell Hamlet, who is hisfriend, about the ghost.

4. How does the reader know this ghost is not a hallucination?

Horatio believes the ghost is real. Its “war-like form” may suggest the spirit’s concern overthe threat from Fortinbras.

T-1

5. How could this ghost be explained as a foreshadowing of coming evil?

It suggests violence as it frowns, and it “starts like a guilty thing.”

6. Describe each of the following characters: Old Hamlet, Horatio, and Fortinbras.

Old Hamlet is strong and aggressive. Horatio is a man of reason, a friend of young Hamlet,and is held in high esteem by others. Fortinbras is a man of “improved mettle,” who isdetermined to recover his father’s losses.

Act I, Scene II

Vocabularyrouse-to toast before drinkbruit-to statebeteem-allowcap-a-pie-head to footbeaver-a cover for the lower face

1. Why is Hamlet upset?

He is mourning his father’s death. He is disgusted that his mother could remarry his uncleso soon after his father’s death and considers their marriage incestuous. His uncle isunacceptable as a father and a King.

2. What is your opinion of the marriage of Gertrude and Claudius? Consider the customsof the time.

The Canon law of the church would have considered the marriage incestuous. Gertrude andClaudius were married less than two months after Hamlet’s death.

3. Why did Hamlet not become King when his father died?

Claudius convinced the court that it was in Denmark’s best interest. Old Hamlet declaredthat Gertrude should have the throne upon his death: “Therefore our sometime sister, nowqueen, The imperial jointress to this warlike state…”

4. Describe Claudius’ personality and attitude.

He is forceful, clever, determined, and in control. He gives the impression that he ismotivated by reason and public duty, while Hamlet is emotional and not able to lead.

T-2

5. How does Hamlet describe his father?

Hamlet says his father is a “Hyperion,” a god of light.

6. What are Hamlet’s feelings about his mother and his new father Claudius? Consider,“Frailty, thy name is woman!”

He sees his mother as weak and lustful. Claudius is a “satyr,” a goat-like caricature of a lecherous man. Hamlet sees their relationship as lusty and incestuous in nature and is disgusted by it. He also does not like the way Claudius behaves as King, drinking and having parties.

7. Explain Hamlet’s state of mind. Consider the following quote: “O, that this too solid flesh would melt,Thaw, and resolve itself into a dew!”

He is overwhelmed by the evil he has encountered. His despair has led to a feeling that life is meaningless and the world is an “unweeded garden.” Many critics have voiced the opinion that the word “solid” was originally intended to be “sullied,” which would reinforce the reasons for Hamlet’s suicidal thoughts and comments he makes later in the play. This is also the first time Hamlet declares that he does not want to live. He yearns to escape his physical, solid, self and become something lighter, like liquid.

8. What does the King want Hamlet to do? Why does Hamlet give up his plan to returnto Wittenburg so easily?

Claudius wants Hamlet to stay in Denmark. Gertrude and Claudius wish Hamlet would stop his excessive grief, accept the death of his father, and go on with his life. Hamlet obeys his mother, not the King, and demonstrates this when he says, “I shall in all my best obey you, Madam”.

T-3

Act I, Scene III

Vocabularyprimy-in prime timecrescent-flourishingthews-muscular powertemple-bodycautel-deceptionbuttons-flower budsliquid-changeablecensure-beliefhabit-clothinghusbandry-management of money

1. Describe the attitudes and values that Laertes gives to Ophelia and those whichPolonius gives to Laertes.

The advice is wordy, pretentious, and concerned mainly with a public image. Laertes and Ophelia fear being foolish. Laertes is worried about his sister’s virtue, and Polonius’ advice is sensible but overly simplistic. Later in the play, Polonius contradicts much of what he says here, when he uses Reynaldo to spy on Laertes. Ophelia must know something of Laertes’ habits in her rejoinder to him. She tells him not to contradict himself: “primrose path,” “recks not his own reed”. Both men seem to like to hear their own words.

2. Explain the reasons that Laertes and Polonius give Ophelia to convince her not to trustHamlet’s love.

Hamlet is not serious; his intentions toward Ophelia are probably not honorable and Hamletwould not be able to marry her because she is not of noble birth.

3. Evaluate Polonius’ advice to his son.

Answers may vary. Example: Most of the advice is how to act or seem to others. Poloniusseems to parrot it; there is no tenderness or fatherly concern. The speech might just as wellhave been given to a stranger.

4. What is comical about Polonius?

He is a pompous man of show, with little substance. He, once, was a keen, trusted advisor,but now, old and in his dotage, cannot be trusted to be accurate in his opinions. It is aserious fault in a King to put faith in such a weak counselor. Polonius, however, still giveswise advice, but often appears as a man who likes to hear himself talk.

T-4

Act I, Scene IV

Vocabularyupspring-a German danceclepe-callpales-fenceso’er-leavens-pervertsimpartment-conversationNemean lion’s-Herculese strangled the lion in his twelve labors

1. What is the point of Hamlet’s long speech?

Hamlet discusses several issues in his speech:Denmark has seriously deteriorated with Claudius as king.The drunkenness in Denmark is giving Danes a bad reputation. One fault in an individual can destroy an otherwise good person.

2. Why do Hamlet’s friends fear for him?

Hamlet follows the ghost alone. His friends fear for him since the ghost may be a devildisguised as his father. They worry the ghost may try to kill him or make him mad.

3. Marcellus states, “Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.” What might this quote signify?

His quote is a reference to the overall condition of the state. The king has died but thebrother, instead of the son, is on the throne and pursues an incestuous relationship with theQueen. The state is full of drunkards and the people are regarded as swine. In addition, aghost has arrived to avenge the death, leading Hamlet away from his friends and possiblyendangering his life.

T-5

Act I, Scene V

VocabularyLethe-in the underworld, it is the river of forgetfulnesseager-bitterlazar-like-leprousunaneled-without the sacramentmatin-sun riseglobe-mindSaint Patrick-said to be the keeper of Purgatorytruepenny-honestantic-abnormal

1. According to the ghost, what has happened? What does the ghost want Hamlet to do?

Claudius seduced Gertrude and murdered King Hamlet. The ghost wants Hamlet to seekrevenge against Claudius for the regicide.

2. Describe Hamlet’s reaction to the ghost.

He is excited and ready to take revenge against Claudius. Hamlet, however, is repulsed by like the idea of committing the murder: “O cursed spite,That ever I was born to set it right!”

3. Discuss the nature of the ghost; is it a devil or an angel in the form of King Hamletwho is in purgatory?

If it is a devil, Hamlet could be led to his eternal destruction by killing Claudius. If KingHamlet was murdered, though, it was believed at the time that he would be able to godirectly to heaven once his earthly sins had been remedied. One of the reasons Hamlet is sostressed by this situation is that the king has died without a religious relief for those sins.

4. In your opinion, is Hamlet mad?

Answers may vary. Example: There is no definitive answer to this. Hamlet tells Horatio andthe guards that he might assume “an antic disposition.” He has shown himself capable ofshifts between clear, rational thought and emotional excitability. Hamlet at times claimsinsanity and at other times denies it. Others in the play are not sure about his mental stateeither as they allude to his condition: the “method” in his “madness”; his “noble mind”“o’erthrown”.

T-6

Act II, Scene I

Vocabularyincontinency-lacking morals in sexual activityvidelicet-that isgyved-shackledecstasy-lunacy

1. List what has occurred between Act I and Act II.

Between these times, Ophelia has refused contact with Hamlet, as her father has instructed and Hamlet is behaving madly. Ophelia describes him as a man “with a look so piteous in purport, as if he had been loosed out of hell to speak of horrors”.

2. What do Ophelia and Polonius decide about Hamlet’s odd behavior?

Polonius decides Hamlet is lovesick from Ophelia’s rejection; Ophelia is not sure.

3. How do you think Ophelia treated Hamlet? Imagine you are Ophelia. How would youtreat Hamlet? Or, imagine that you are Hamlet. How would you like Ophelia to treatyou?

Ophelia seems to reject him for no reason other than to meet her father’s demands. Sherealizes hat she cannot marry Hamlet because she is not of noble birth. If her honor isruined she will have few options in the future without Hamlet. She would probably live the rest of her life in a nunnery since without her virginity she would not be desirable for marriage. Answers will vary.

4. Do you think Polonius follows his own advice regarding his instructions to Reynaldo,considering the values he expresses to his son?

Polonius is underhanded as he arranges to spy on his son. He seems convinced that Laertescould not behave properly away from home.

T-7

Act II, Scene II

Vocabularysith-sincePolack-King of Polandperpend-considermachine-heartround-immediatelywatch-inability to sleepspringes-trapsbreathing-talkingprivates-those not in public officecoted-passedinhibition-prohibitioneyases-young hawksmows-facesgarb-methodextent-welcomeJeptha-Biblical figure who sacrificed his daughtervalanced-beardedchopine-woman’s shoedigested-arrangedsable arms-armorbisson rheum-blinding tearsscullion-kitchen servant

1. How does this scene prepare the reader for future scenes?

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, now the King and Queen’s spies, are instructed to find thecause of Hamlet’s misery. Claudius and Polonius will spy on a meeting between Ophelia andHamlet to see if Hamlet is lovesick or insane.

2. Compare and contrast Hamlet and Fortinbras. Why has Fortinbras changed his plan toattack Denmark?

It has been negotiated that the King of Norway, Fortinbras’ uncle, will intercede and haveFortinbras attack Poland instead of Denmark. Fortinbras is like Hamlet because he hascommitted to avenging his father’s death. Fortinbras, however, takes rational action bygathering public support. Hamlet has adopted irrational behavior and looked for no publicsupport.

3. Why does Claudius hire Rosencrantz and Guildenstern as spies?

He is threatened by Hamlet’s lunacy. He feels Rosencrantz and Guildenstern can find outwhat Hamlet is thinking because Claudius believes they are Hamlet’s friends. In addition,they will report back to Claudius because they are loyal subjects of the King.

T-8

4. How does Hamlet feel about Rosencrantz and Guildenstern? Why?

He behaves normally and is friendly at first, but discovers the two are the King’s spies. Hethen returns to his depression because, just as brother has killed brother, his friends havebetrayed him. It appears that deception and disloyalty know no bounds.

5. What is the story of Hecuba and Priam? Explain the story’s significance. What isHamlet’s reaction to the story? Explain.

Hecuba is grieving over her murdered husband Priam. Hamlet is angry with himself becausehe has taken no action against Claudius and feels his mother has not properly grieved.Actors who have no connection to the story can shed tears, but he is able to do nothing.

6. Explain Hamlet’s state of mind as revealed by his soliloquy. What do Hamlet’s remarksto Polonius tell about Hamlet’s thoughts? In his dialogue with Rosencrantz andGuildenstern, Hamlet reveals a change he has undergone. What is it?

He is deliberately mad and can switch his pose as it suits him. Hamlet is a disillusionedidealist. Although he had believed the Renaissance idea that man is capable of noble reasonand sublime thought, Hamlet realizes man is also capable of animal-like behavior and evil.He sees the world now as empty and man as nothing.

7. What idea does Hamlet get from having the players in the court?

He will have the players perform “The Murder of Gonzago” for Claudius and the court. IfClaudius is guilty of the murder and the ghost is truthful, Claudius will act uncomfortableduring the play and Hamlet will observe this. This will give him the proof he needs to takehis revenge.

Act III, Scene I

Vocabularyblench-flinchespials-spiesbodkin-daggerfardels-packsinoculate-to bud

1. What is Claudius’ opinion of Hamlet’s madness? What action does he decide to take?Why?

Claudius decides to send Hamlet to England since he sees Hamlet as dangerous: “Madnessin great ones must not unwatch’d go”.

T-9

2. To what idea of Hamlet’s madness does Polonius cling? Why?

He insists that Hamlet is lovesick. Polonius is completely unaware of the increasinganimosity between Claudius and Hamlet.

3. Describe and explain Hamlet’s treatment of Ophelia. Is Hamlet aware that he is beingwatched?

Hamlet vents his anger on Ophelia for his mother’s falseness and for his own inability toact. He considers Ophelia false because he realizes that Ophelia has betrayed him by goingalong with the plan to have Polonius spy on them.

4. What is your opinion of Ophelia’s reactions to her father’s ideas?

Answers may vary. Example: In agreeing to her father’s plan without question, she is being adutiful daughter.

5. What ideas are suggested in Hamlet’s speech “To be, or not to be…”?

In his speech, Hamlet discusses his ideas of:Human misery, despair over injustice: “slings and arrows of outrageous fortune”The frustration of wanting to eradicate corruption from the world: “the oppressor’s wrong”The desire to end life because it asks too much: “a sea of troubles”Illness and pain: “the thousand natural shocks”The fear of death: “The undiscover’d country”The inability to avenge: “lose the name of action”The choice of life or death: “his quietus make”

6. What gives a universal quality to this speech?

They are concerns that every thinking person has at one time or another.

7. What does Ophelia say about Hamlet?

She expresses the opinion that Hamlet’s brilliant mind is lost. He had been the idealElizabethan man, but his behavior and anger have frightened and upset her.

T-10

Act III, Scene II

VocabularyTermangant-a Muslim deityHerod-presented as a tyrant in medieval dramacoped-encounteredpregnant-readythrift-profitVulcan’s-god of fire and metal workingmiching mallecho-mischiefPhoebus’ cart-chariot of the sun godHymen-god of marriageHectate’s ban-the curse of the goddess of magic and the underworldNero-Roman emperor who put his mother to death

1. Why does Hamlet trust and admire Horatio?

Horatio is a man with control over his emotions.

2. When Hamlet speaks to Ophelia, what shows that he has lost faith in her?

He acts as if she is corrupt and immoral. He treats her and speaks to her as if she were awhore instead of the woman he previously loved.

3. What does the play-within-a-play reveal?

Hamlet and Horatio have two chances to watch the King’s reaction to the act of murderperformed in the play. The King does reveal his guilt; both Hamlet and Horatio are nowconvinced the ghost was truthful. Hamlet has objective evidence of the King’s guilt.

4. What is Hamlet’s attitude toward Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?

Hamlet is angered by their intrusion and betrayal.

5. What is Hamlet’s state of mind at this point in the play?

He is ready to fulfill the ghost’s request by killing Claudius.

T-11

Act III, Scene III

Vocabularynoyance-harmcess-deathflush-lustyphysic-remedy for disease

1. How does Claudius feel about himself? What has changed?

Claudius is now fearful for his soul. He knows he cannot repent while he keeps the spoils ofhis crime, i.e., the crown and the Queen. If he cannot give them up, however, and his crimeis tormenting him.

2. How does Rosencrantz describe the role and consequences of being King?

Rosencrantz says that the livelihood of the kingdom rests upon the King. If the King dies, all are affected, no matter how insignificant their role may seem. The King also never sighsalone, meaning the kingdom suffers with him and under the consequences of his actions. “To keep those many many bodies save That live and feed upon your Majesty…The cess of majesty Dies not alone, but like a gulf doth draw What’s near it.…Never alone Did theKing sigh…”

3. Why doesn’t Hamlet kill Claudius when he has the opportunity?

He says he cannot kill Claudius while Claudius is praying. Unlike his father, who had notime to ask forgiveness before his death, Claudius would go directly to heaven. This wouldbe no revenge. Perhaps, Hamlet is still unable to commit murder and is looking for moreexcuses.

T-12

Act III, Scene IV

Vocabularybraz’d-brass-coatedrhapsody-emptygrained-dyed red in grainenseamed-sulliedconceit-ideagambol-to skipunction-ointmentreechy-foul smellingpaddock-toadgib-tomcat

1. How does Hamlet behave towards his mother? What changes after the ghost visits?

He frightens her with his rage. He stops his harangue when the ghost appears.

2. What happens to Polonius?

He is hiding behind a screen in order to spy on Hamlet. When Polonius, still hidden, criesout in response to Gertrude’s cries of fear, Hamlet kills him by stabbing him through thescreen.

3. Describe Gertrude’s reactions to Hamlet. Do you think she is guilty in any way?Explain.

Answers may vary.Example: She believes Hamlet is mad and hallucinating, especially since the ghost is visibleonly to Hamlet. She does not show signs of guilt, only an inability to understand and aconcern for Hamlet.

4. Do you believe Hamlet when he says he is only pretending to be mad?

Answers may vary. Example: Hamlet’s emotions are at their highest pitch of intensity at thispoint in the play; he is wild and rash, torn with emotion, fear, anger, and disillusionment.

T-13

Act IV, Scene I

Vocabularybrainish-brainstickdivulging-becoming publicblank-target

1. After learning of Polonius’ death, what is the King’s reaction? Why?

He tells Rosencrantz and Guildenstern that he will send Hamlet to England without delay.Hamlet has become a threat to everyone.

2. Is Gertrude loyal to Claudius?

Gertrude does not reject Claudius as Hamlet requests, but she focuses on Hamlet’s lunacy. Inher loyalty to Claudius, she goes along with the plan to send Hamlet away.

Act IV, Scene II

Vocabularyscourge-punishment

1. How does Hamlet react now to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?

Instead of accusing them of trying to play him like an instrument, Hamlet now callsRosencrantz a “sponge” for soaking up Claudius’ favors. He is extraordinarily vicious andrightfully does not trust them.

2. What figurative language does Hamlet use to describe the King?

The King is “like an ape” (simile) who uses the men as he pleases.

T-14

Act IV, Scene III

VocabularyEngland-the king of Englandhectic-fever

1. How does Hamlet react to being sent to England?

Hamlet submits to going to England, but makes it clear to the King that he bids farewell tohis mother, not to Claudius.

2. Where does Hamlet say Polonius’ body is?

Hamlet does not immediately reveal the location of the body. Instead, he describes the cycleof life and “how a King may go a process through the guts of a beggar”.

3. What does the King’s closing soliloquy reveal? What contradiction between his surfacebehavior and his real feelings is apparent?

He has ordered that Hamlet be put to death when Hamlet reaches England. He is calm onthe surface, but he says Hamlet “rages” in his blood.

Act IV, Scene IV

Vocabularyimposthume-abscessfust-to go moldytrick-trifle

1. What effect does meeting Fortinbras have on Hamlet?

Again, Hamlet is angry at himself for not acting against Claudius. He compares hisinactivity to Fortinbras’ decisive, honorable behavior.

2. What does Hamlet’s soliloquy reveal about his present idea of himself?

He is a coward for allowing Claudius to live. Hamlet seems to despise himself, but at the end of the speech vows to commit himself to the regicide (“My thoughts be bloody, or be nothing worth!”).

T-15

Act IV, Scene V

Vocabularyspills-destroysshoon-shoeslarded-adorneddupp’d-openedGis-slanderous term for JesusCock-slanderous term for Godarraign-accusewheel-burdenfennel-columbines-flowers symbolizing infidelityrue-plant symbolizing repentancedaisy-flower symbolizing unrequited loveviolets-flowers signifying faithfulness

1. Describe Ophelia’s behavior. How does Claudius react to Ophelia?

She is completely mad, without pretenses. He is concerned and orders that she be watched.

2. Describe Laertes’ response to his father’s death. How is he a foil for Hamlet?

Laertes is in a rage. Intent on revenge, he doesn’t consider the consequences. Because Laertes is able to gather a small army of supporters, the implication is that Hamlet, who is so popular, could have unseated Claudius this way. Laertes contrasts with Hamlet because he focuses his energy on action while Hamlet focuses on pondering before action.

3. Ophelia distribute flowers to the King and Queen before she dies. How do theseflowers relate to the characters and their actions?

She gives the Queen fennel and columbines, flowers identified with unfaithfulness becausethe Queen has been unfaithful to her late husband and son. She gives the King rue forrepentance, signifying he should repent for the murder of his brother. She also gives him adaisy, the symbol of unrequited love. Perhaps she is alluding to the idea that the Queen doesnot truly love him.

4. What happens to Ophelia?

She drowns. Suicide is the apparent cause.

T-16

Act IV, Scene VI

Vocabularyoverlooked-read

1. What news is revealed in Hamlet’s letter to Horatio? What does this show aboutHamlet?

The ship bringing Hamlet to England had been attacked by pirates. The pirates are bringingHamlet back to Denmark. He is clever enough to have negotiated this arrangement.

2. What will happen to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?

Hamlet opens the sealed orders that decreed his death. He changes them to orderRosencrantz and Guildenstern’s death.

Act IV, Scene VII

Vocabularyfeats-wicked actionsnaked-impoverishedabuse-deceptionsiege-rankscrimers-fencerssimples-medicinal herbsgall-woundcold-chastelauds-hymns

1. Why does the King tell Laertes he will not kill Hamlet himself?

The King does not kill Hamlet for two reasons. He explains: The Queen loves Hamlet andsince the King loves her, he will not hurt her. “She’s so conjunctive to my life and soul That,as the star moves not but in his sphere, I could not but by her.” Claudius also cannot killhim because the people love him and find no fault in him. If the King kills him, the peoplewill be angry.

2. Explain Laertes and Claudius’ plan to kill Hamlet. How is Claudius taking advantage ofLaertes?

He knows Laertes will do anything to avenge his father’s death. Laertes and Hamlet are to have a fencing match. Laertes will use a pointed, poisoned rapier and seem to kill Hamlet by accident. If this fails, the King will give Hamlet a drink of poisoned wine.

T-17

Act V, Scene I

Vocabularycrowner-coronerse offendendo-blunder for in self-defenseargal-ergoquest-in questjowls-throwschapless-without jawsquiddities-argumentsindentures-contractsflaw-wind gustfordo-destroystrewments-strung flowers; garlandwoo’t-will youeisel-vinegarquick-alive

1. The clowns (gravediggers) discuss where and how Ophelia is to be buried. How doesthe issue of suicide affect the burial?

If Ophelia committed suicide, according to Christian practices of the time, she would not beburied in consecrated ground.

2. Who was Yorick? How has Hamlet’s attitude toward death changed?

Yorick was a court jester when Hamlet was young. Hamlet no longer fears death. Herealizes that everyone must die, and he is ready, if it should happen.

3. What dramatic function do the gravediggers have, and what theme do they express?

The gravediggers provide comic relief with their humor and sarcasm in attempts to relievethe disgusting qualities of their tasks. Shakespeare often uses comical figures to relieve theseriousness of a scene, as he does here with their words and actions. The theme they expressis that death makes all people equal.

4. Explain Hamlet’s reaction to Laertes’ behavior at Ophelia’s funeral.

He is disgusted by Laertes’ over-emotional display. He seems to question Laertes’ sincerity.

T-18

Act V, Scene II

Vocabularybilboes-restraintsstatists-statesmenpass-thrust of the swordcozenage-deceitcrib-troughperdition-lossmeed-serviceponiards-daggersgerman-appropriateyesty-frothyunion-pearlo’er-crows-victoriouspassage-death

1. Explain Hamlet’s remarks to Horatio about fate.

Fate (in the form of the pirate’s intervention and Hamlet’s possessing his father’s ring) hasallowed him to return to Denmark to act against Claudius. Hamlet also says that fate hasmore power over people than their own desire for control.

2. Describe Hamlet’s state of mind before he fences with Laertes. How has Hamletchanged?

He is calm, senses danger, but is ready to face death.

3. Why does Hamlet apologize to Laertes?

He regrets killing Polonius, telling Laertes that it was his madness or “distraction” that caused him to kill rashly. Hamlet says he admires Laertes for his ability to act so quickly and so strongly.

4. Explain how each character dies in the end.

Hamlet dies when Laertes wounds him with the poisoned rapier. Laertes and Hamlet changeswords and Hamlet wounds Laertes with the same poisoned rapier. Before Laertes dies, heconfesses what he and Claudius had planned. The Queen dies when she drinks the poisonedwine that was meant for Hamlet. The King dies after Hamlet stabs him with the poisonedrapier and forces him to drink the poisoned wine.

T-19

5. Why did it end this way?

With the deaths of the characters the evil is gone, King Hamlet is avenged, and the ghostcan rest in peace.

6. Who does Hamlet appoint to tell his story to the world? Why?

Hamlet wants Horatio, who is respected, to tell all. This will save Hamlet’s honor.

7. Who will be the next King of Denmark?

Fortinbras marches in and assumes leadership, with Hamlet’s dying acknowledgment thatFortinbras has a claim to Denmark’s throne.

T-20

Hamlet

Study GuideStudent Copy

Act I, Scene I

Vocabularyrivals-companionssometimes-previouslymart-tradeimpress-draftmoist star-moonpartisan-sword

1. What exposition is provided in this scene? Include an explanation of the quarrel withNorway.

2. What atmosphere is created by this scene? How?

3. Why has Horatio been asked to join the soldiers in the night watch? What has hedecided to do?

4. How does the reader know this ghost is not a hallucination?

5. How could this ghost be explained as a foreshadowing of coming evil?

6. Describe each of the following characters: Old Hamlet, Horatio, and Fortinbras.

S-1

Act I, Scene II

Vocabularyrouse-to toast before drinkbruit-to statebeteem-allowcap-a-pie-head to footbeaver-a cover for the lower face

1. Why is Hamlet upset?

2. What is your opinion of the marriage of Gertrude and Claudius? Consider the customsof the time.

3. Why did Hamlet not become King when his father died?

4. Describe Claudius’ personality and attitude.

S-2

5. How does Hamlet describe his father?

6. What are Hamlet’s feelings about his mother and his new father Claudius? Consider,“Frailty, thy name is woman!”

7. Explain Hamlet’s state of mind. Consider the following quote: “O, that this too solid flesh would melt,Thaw, and resolve itself into a dew!”

8. What does the King want Hamlet to do? Why does Hamlet give up his plan to returnto Wittenburg so easily?

S-3

Act I, Scene III

Vocabularyprimy-in prime timecrescent-flourishingthews-muscular powertemple-bodycautel-deceptionbuttons-flower budsliquid-changeablecensure-beliefhabit-clothinghusbandry-management of money

1. Describe the attitudes and values that Laertes gives to Ophelia and those whichPolonius gives to Laertes.

2. Explain the reasons that Laertes and Polonius give Ophelia to convince her not to trustHamlet’s love.

3. Evaluate Polonius’ advice to his son.

4. What is comical about Polonius?

S-4

Act I, Scene IV

Vocabularyupspring-a German danceclepe-callpales-fenceso’er-leavens-pervertsimpartment-conversationNemean lion’s-Herculese strangled the lion in his twelve labors

1. What is the point of Hamlet’s long speech?

2. Why do Hamlet’s friends fear for him?

3. Marcellus states, “Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.” What might this quote signify?

S-5

Act I, Scene V

VocabularyLethe-in the underworld, it is the river of forgetfulnesseager-bitterlazar-like-leprousunaneled-without the sacramentmatin-sun riseglobe-mindSaint Patrick-said to be the keeper of Purgatorytruepenny-honestantic-abnormal

1. According to the ghost, what has happened? What does the ghost want Hamlet to do?

2. Describe Hamlet’s reaction to the ghost.

3. Discuss the nature of the ghost; is it a devil or an angel in the form of King Hamletwho is in purgatory?

4. In your opinion, is Hamlet mad?

S-6

Act II, Scene I

Vocabularyincontinency-lacking morals in sexual activityvidelicet-that isgyved-shackledecstasy-lunacy

1. List what has occurred between Act I and Act II.

2. What do Ophelia and Polonius decide about Hamlet’s odd behavior?

3. How do you think Ophelia treated Hamlet? Imagine you are Ophelia. How would youtreat Hamlet? Or, imagine that you are Hamlet. How would you like Ophelia to treatyou?

4. Do you think Polonius follows his own advice regarding his instructions to Reynaldo,considering the values he expresses to his son?

S-7

Act II, Scene II

Vocabularysith-sincePolack-King of Polandperpend-considermachine-heartround-immediatelywatch-inability to sleepspringes-trapsbreathing-talkingprivates-those not in public officecoted-passedinhibition-prohibitioneyases-young hawksmows-facesgarb-methodextent-welcomeJeptha-Biblical figure who sacrificed his daughtervalanced-beardedchopine-woman’s shoedigested-arrangedsable arms-armorbisson rheum-blinding tearsscullion-kitchen servant

1. How does this scene prepare the reader for future scenes?

2. Compare and contrast Hamlet and Fortinbras. Why has Fortinbras changed his plan toattack Denmark?

S-8

3. Why does Claudius hire Rosencrantz and Guildenstern as spies?

4. How does Hamlet feel about Rosencrantz and Guildenstern? Why?

5. What is the story of Hecuba and Priam? Explain the story’s significance. What isHamlet’s reaction to the story? Explain.

6. Explain Hamlet’s state of mind as revealed by his soliloquy. What do Hamlet’s remarksto Polonius tell about Hamlet’s thoughts? In his dialogue with Rosencrantz andGuildenstern, Hamlet reveals a change he has undergone. What is it?

7. What idea does Hamlet get from having the players in the court?

S-9

Act III, Scene I

Vocabularyblench-flinchespials-spiesbodkin-daggerfardels-packsinoculate-to bud

1. What is Claudius’ opinion of Hamlet’s madness? What action does he decide to take?Why?

2. To what idea of Hamlet’s madness does Polonius cling? Why?

3. Describe and explain Hamlet’s treatment of Ophelia. Is Hamlet aware that he is beingwatched?

4. What is your opinion of Ophelia’s reactions to her father’s ideas?

5. What ideas are suggested in Hamlet’s speech “To be, or not to be…”?

6. What gives a universal quality to this speech?

7. What does Ophelia say about Hamlet?

S-10

Act III, Scene II

VocabularyTermangant-a Muslim deityHerod-presented as a tyrant in medieval dramacoped-encounteredpregnant-readythrift-profitVulcan’s-god of fire and metal workingmiching mallecho-mischiefPhoebus’ cart-chariot of the sun godHymen-god of marriageHectate’s ban-the curse of the goddess of magic and the underworldNero-Roman emperor who put his mother to death

1. Why does Hamlet trust and admire Horatio?

2. When Hamlet speaks to Ophelia, what shows that he has lost faith in her?

3. What does the play-within-a-play reveal?

4. What is Hamlet’s attitude toward Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?

5. What is Hamlet’s state of mind at this point in the play?

S-11

Act III, Scene III

Vocabularynoyance-harmcess-deathflush-lustyphysic-remedy for disease

1. How does Claudius feel about himself? What has changed?

2. How does Rosencrantz describe the role and consequences of being King?

3. Why doesn’t Hamlet kill Claudius when he has the opportunity?

S-12

Act III, Scene IV

Vocabularybraz’d-brass-coatedrhapsody-emptygrained-dyed red in grainenseamed-sulliedconceit-ideagambol-to skipunction-ointmentreechy-foul smellingpaddock-toadgib-tomcat

1. How does Hamlet behave towards his mother? What changes after the ghost visits?

2. What happens to Polonius?

3. Describe Gertrude’s reactions to Hamlet. Do you think she is guilty in any way?Explain.

4. Do you believe Hamlet when he says he is only pretending to be mad?

S-13

Act IV, Scene I

Vocabularybrainish-brainstickdivulging-becoming publicblank-target

1. After learning of Polonius’ death, what is the King’s reaction? Why?

2. Is Gertrude loyal to Claudius?

Act IV, Scene II

Vocabularyscourge-punishment

1. How does Hamlet react now to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?

2. What figurative language does Hamlet use to describe the King?

S-14

Act IV, Scene III

VocabularyEngland-the king of Englandhectic-fever

1. How does Hamlet react to being sent to England?

2. Where does Hamlet say Polonius’ body is?

3. What does the King’s closing soliloquy reveal? What contradiction between his surfacebehavior and his real feelings is apparent?

Act IV, Scene IV

Vocabularyimposthume-abscessfust-to go moldytrick-trifle

1. What effect does meeting Fortinbras have on Hamlet?

2. What does Hamlet’s soliloquy reveal about his present idea of himself?

S-15

Act IV, Scene V

Vocabularyspills-destroysshoon-shoeslarded-adorneddupp’d-openedGis-slanderous term for JesusCock-slanderous term for Godarraign-accusewheel-burdenfennel-columbines-flowers symbolizing infidelityrue-plant symbolizing repentancedaisy-flower symbolizing unrequited loveviolets-flowers signifying faithfulness

1. Describe Ophelia’s behavior. How does Claudius react to Ophelia?

2. Describe Laertes’ response to his father’s death. How is he a foil for Hamlet?

3. Ophelia distribute flowers to the King and Queen before she dies. How do theseflowers relate to the characters and their actions?

4. What happens to Ophelia?

S-16

Act IV, Scene VI

Vocabularyoverlooked-read

1. What news is revealed in Hamlet’s letter to Horatio? What does this show aboutHamlet?

2. What will happen to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?

Act IV, Scene VII

Vocabularyfeats-wicked actionsnaked-impoverishedabuse-deceptionsiege-rankscrimers-fencerssimples-medicinal herbsgall-woundcold-chastelauds-hymns

1. Why does the King tell Laertes he will not kill Hamlet himself?

2. Explain Laertes and Claudius’ plan to kill Hamlet. How is Claudius taking advantage ofLaertes?

S-17

Act V, Scene I

Vocabularycrowner-coronerse offendendo-blunder for in self-defenseargal-ergoquest-in questjowls-throwschapless-without jawsquiddities-argumentsindentures-contractsflaw-wind gustfordo-destroystrewments-strung flowers; garlandwoo’t-will youeisel-vinegarquick-alive

1. The clowns (gravediggers) discuss where and how Ophelia is to be buried. How doesthe issue of suicide affect the burial?

2. Who was Yorick? How has Hamlet’s attitude toward death changed?

3. What dramatic function do the gravediggers have, and what theme do they express?

4. Explain Hamlet’s reaction to Laertes’ behavior at Ophelia’s funeral.

S-18

Act V, Scene II

Vocabularybilboes-restraintsstatists-statesmenpass-thrust of the swordcozenage-deceitcrib-troughperdition-lossmeed-serviceponiards-daggersgerman-appropriateyesty-frothyunion-pearlo’er-crows-victoriouspassage-death

1. Explain Hamlet’s remarks to Horatio about fate.

2. Describe Hamlet’s state of mind before he fences with Laertes. How has Hamletchanged?

3. Why does Hamlet apologize to Laertes?

S-19

4. Explain how each character dies in the end.

5. Why did it end this way?

6. Who does Hamlet appoint to tell his story to the world? Why?

7. Who will be the next King of Denmark?

S-20

! ! ! !! ! !!!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!!

! !!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! !!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! !!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!!

!

! ! ! !! ! !!!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!

! ! ! !! ! !!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!!

!

! ! ! !! ! !!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

!

! ! ! !! ! !!!!

! ! ! !! ! !!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! !!

!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! !!!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

!!!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!!

! ! ! !! ! !!

! ! ! !! ! !!

! !!!

;

! ! ! ! ! !

! Check or Money Order Enclosed ! Purchase Order Enclosed! Visa ! MasterCard ! Discover Card ! American Express

Signature

Telephone # Exp. Date

Credit Card #

Method of Payment (Choose one)

Because charges for air delivery are based on weight and distance, heavy packages can be expensive to ship air freight. Typographic and photo-graphic errors are subject to revision. Prestwick House is the sole source of all proprietary materials listed in this catalogue. Please be sure toinclude a street address. FedEx ground/UPS will not deliver to a P.O. Box.

We accept purchase orders and authorized orderscharged to institutions. Personal orders not on acredit card must be accompanied by a check.

Subtotal $

Shipping $12% S&H ($6.00 minimum)

Total $

ITEM NO TITLE QUANTITY X PRICE = TOTAL

Shipping & HandlingFor orders of $50.00 or less, please add $6.00 for shipping andhandling charges. For orders from $50.01 to $799.99 add 12%For orders of $800.00 and more, add 10%

Delivery ServiceMost orders are shipped FedEx and you can expect delivery with-in 7-10 working days. Items in stock are usually shipped withinone working day of receiving your order.

Expedited Deliveryfor expedited delivery ask about the following options:• Overnight Air• 2nd day air• 3 Day Select

P R E S T W I C K H O U S E , I N C .

Call 1-800-932-4593 Fax 1-888-718-9333 Prestwick House, Inc.P.O. Box 658

Clayton, DE 19938

School:

Name:

Address:

City, State, Zip:

Phone: Email:

Ship To: "Home "School

School:

Name:

Address:

City, State, Zip:

Phone: Email:

Bill To: " Home "School

Order Form