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Shakespears

HAMLET
Reading Questions

DIRECTIONS: Provide a well-developed response to each prompt using cited examples to support your claims (Act.Scene.Page) or (1.2.10).

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SAMPLE QUESTION
Act 1, Scene 1
The opening scene of Hamlet sets the tone for the entire play and introduces the audience to one of the plays predominate
themes: the disconnect between appearance and reality. Explain how Shakespeare uses the opening scene to reveal the theme
of appearance versus reality, specifically considering
a. the plays opening three lines
b. Horatios ambiguous response to Bernardo
c. the identity and nature of the apparition
d. Horatios admitted disbelief after the apparition exits
e. Horatios ambiguous response to Marcellus question regarding the apparition

SAMPLE RESPONSE
a) Bernardos inquisitive opening line, Whos there? (1.1.1), as well as Fernandos demanding that the mysterious
man before him unfold (1.1.1) himself, suggests our distrust of others and our continuous attempt to interrogate
those with whom we interact. Our responses are equally cautious, as seen in Bernardos response, Long live the
king! (1.1.1). Unaware of the individual within his company, swearing allegiance to the monarchy (despite its
potentially being inauthentic) is a safe response that is socially appropriate and nonthreatening.
b) This inability to fully grasp the wholeness of an individual is further alluded to when Bernardo later asks if the
man before him is Horatio, who ambiguously responds, A piece of him (1.1.2), leading us to believe there is
more to his identity than his mere appearance.
c) Similarly, the identity of the ghost of Hamlets recently deceased father is also a mystery, as the men who stand
before it can only claim that it looks like (1.1.1), or has the appearance of, the the king.
d) Horatio, upon being confronted by the ghost, states that he wouldnt believe the figure was real without the . . .
true avouch of [his] own eyes (1.1.1).
e) However, when asked if this apparition looks like king, Horatio once again replies with an ambiguous response:
As thou art to thyself (1.1.1). While seemingly confirming that the apparition is the ghost of the late king,
assuming that our own appearance does not confirm or authentically represent who we actually are, a disconnect
of what appears to be and what actually is becomes revealed.

Act 1, Scene 1
1. An addition theme woven throughout Hamlet is the notion of revenge, shrouded in a motif of death. Explain how
Shakespeare uses the opening scene to reveal this theme and motif, specifically considering
a. The character that serves as a focal point of the plays opening scene
b. Marcellus description of the hour the apparition arrives
c. Horatios prophetic foreshadowing remark
d. The justification of such intense war preparations in Denmark
Act 1, Scene 2
2. Claudius is introduced in the opening of the plays second scene with the delivery of a monologue during his coronation as
the new king of Denmark. Explain the message conveyed within Claudius opening monologue and its portrayal of Claudius
character, specifically considering Claudius
a. monologue juxtaposed with the previous scene
b. comments concerning the death of the king and how discretion has fought with nature
c. comments pertaining to the Gertrude, the queen, and his use and purpose of various antitheses
d. handling of the political situation involving Fortinbras and the country of Norway
3. Hamlet is introduced via an interaction with Claudius and Gertrude, his queen and mother. Explain what we learn of
Hamlets authentic self during this interaction. When analyzing the passage, consider
a. the meaning of Hamlets opening aside, and his established relationship with Claudius
b. Hamlets response towards his mother on the concept of what seems and what really is
c. Hamlets emotional response and future aspirations when compared to the expectations conveyed by Claudius
d. the discretion Claudius believes we should take when considering our response to the concept of death
4. The concept of death is reintroduced and discussed in throughout the beginning of the scene. Explain the nature of and
approach towards death presented in this scene. When analyzing the comments directed towards Hamlets mournful
appearance, consider
a. the nature of death as explained by Gertrude
b. the nature of death as explained by Claudius
5. Analyze Hamlets first major soliloquy and explain what we learn of Hamlets search inward into the interior of the self.
When analyzing the passage, consider Hamlets:
a. thoughts on the nature of life, as well as his contemplations on death
b. exploration of his feelings towards his mother and uncle, and his willingness to express such feelings

Act 1, Scene 3
6. Prior to departing for France, Laertes imparts advice toward his sister, Ophelia. Explain the nature of this advice and its
effect on authenticity of the self, specifically considering Laertes:
a. opinion of Hamlets love for Ophelia
b. understanding of the limitations imposed on Hamlets will and choice throughout his life (i.e., authentic self)
c. fear of what could become of Ophelia if she becomes involved with Hamlet
d. adherence to his own advice, as Ophelia quickly points out
7. Prior to departing for France, Laertes is given advice from his father, Polonius. Explain the nature of this advice and its
effect on authenticity of the self, specifically considering Polonius:
a. use and meaning of various antitheses
b. belief of what is to be considered above all and how this relates to ones inner self and external self
8. After Laertes departs for France, Polonius imparts advice toward his daughter, Ophelia. Explain the nature of this advice and
its effect on authenticity of the self, specifically considering Polonius:
a. opinion of Hamlets love for Ophelia
b. fear of what could result from a relationship between his daughter and Hamlet
c. final direction regarding her future encounters with Hamlet
Act 1, Scene 4
9. In the opening of scene, Hamlet comments on the festivities that are underway within the halls of Denmark. Explain
Hamlets thoughts on this custom, specifically considering Hamlets:
a. idea of traditions role within modern society, and its implication on the authentic self
b. believed effect this tradition has on the perception of the nation of Denmark
c. theory on what comes of ones internal self and external self when it carries the stamp of one defect
10. Toward the end of the scene, Hamlet finally comes face to face with the apparition. Explain the sequence of events
pertaining to Hamlets interaction with this apparition, specifically considering:
a. Hamlets use and meaning of various antitheses when initially witnessing the Ghost
b. Horatios concern with Hamlets pursuing the Ghost
c. Hamlets action/inaction upon inferring the Ghosts request
Act 1, Scene 5
11. The Ghost finally reveals itself to Hamlet and claims to be his deceased father. Analyze the Ghosts monologue directed
towards Hamlet, specifically considering:
a. the Ghosts portrayal of life beyond death and the meaning behind the vivid details provided, or lack thereof
b. what action the Ghost wants Prince Hamlet to take regarding Claudius, and his mother
12. After the Ghost departs, Hamlet delivers his second major soliloquy. Analyze Hamlets soliloquy, specifically considering:
a. Hamlets initial response and vowed action/inaction upon hearing the Ghosts monologue
b. the lesson Hamlet learns and is compelled to write down, and its relation to appearance and reality
13. Hamlet encounters Horatio and Marcellus after the Ghosts departure. Analyze their discussion, specifically considering:
a. Hamlets comment: there are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy.
b. the effect of putting on a "antic disposition" will have on Hamlets future plans and authentic self
c. what we are to believe of Hamlets future action/inaction

Act 2, Scene 1
14. In the opening scene of Hamlets second act, the themes related to self-authenticity and the disconnect between appearance
and reality takes center stage. Explain how Shakespeare uses the scene to reveal the themes, specifically considering
a. what Polonius tells Reynaldo to do, as well as what this say of Polonius and his way of thinking/acting
b. what Polonius believes will result from the requests he is making of Reynaldo
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c. the authenticity of Hamlets appearance and behavior when speaking to Ophelia, considering both of their recent vows

Act 2, Scene 2
15. With Hamlets recent display of lunacy, there is an attempt to discover the cause of his behavior. Explain how this search
for truth serves as a vehicle to demonstration of the tension between appearance and reality, specifically considering
a. Claudius commentary on Hamlets interior and exterior self
b. Claudius ambiguous motives behind his request of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern
c. the nature of Rosencrantz and Guildensterns relationship with Hamlet
d. Gertrudes and Polonius contrasting opinions as to the cause of Hamlets appearance, and the plan to discover the truth
e. Hamlets ambiguous conversation(s) with Polonius, as well as with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern
16. Hamlet meditates deeply on the notions of Truth and authenticity throughout this scene. Explain how Hamlet reveals
his thoughts on these subjects and their relation to the theme of appearance versus reality, specifically considering
a. Hamlets comment on the perception of honesty (when speaking with Pol.)
b. Hamlets comment on the perception of Truth (when speaking with Ros. and Guil.)
c. the role of ambition in determining the authenticity of monarchs/heroes and beggars
d. the irony of Hamlets interest in the group of players who have recently come to Denmark
17. Explain the insight Hamlet portrays on the nature of life and death, specifically considering
a. Hamlets comments on what becomes of us in old age and our opinion of youth (when speaking with Pol.)
i. Rosencrantz later adds to the perception of old age (when speaking to Ham. in regards to Pol.)
b. the metaphor Hamlet uses to explain the world, and especially Denmark (when speaking with Ros. and Guil.)
c. Hamlets perception of the natural Earth and the nature of man (when speaking with Ros. and Guil.)
18. To close the second act, Hamlet delivers his third major soliloquy, which could be read as a series of positions from which
Hamlet discourses on what he has done, or failed to do, so far. The different positions offered in the soliloquy are
summarized in a jumbled sequence below. Reread the soliloquy carefully and then match the readings or descriptions below
to what you consider to be the appropriate lines of the speech:
a. a comparison between the players response to a revenge with his own
b. a self-judgment of baseness and utter worthlessness
c. a contemptuous reflection on his wordiness
d. an expression of doubt about the status of the Ghost
e. a questioning of the reasons for his lack of action
f. a resolution to put on a play

Act 3, Scene 1
19. Explain how the theme of appearance versus reality is apparent in the moments prior to and while conducting the plan to
reveal the truth behind Hamlets lunacy, specifically considering
a. the contents of, and motivation behind, the text given to Ophelia by Polonius
b. Claudius analogy of the appearance of the harlots check and reality of his recent action
c. Hamlets comments pertaining to the appearance of females
d. Hamlets overall ambiguous feelings towards Ophelia (Are they are long-time lovers? Has Hamlet been playing with
Ophelia all along? Does Hamlet truly love Ophelia until he suspects she is conspiring against him?)
20. Within the opening lines of Hamlets forth major soliloquy, Hamlet delivers one of the most famous lines in literature. Analyze
Hamlets soliloquy, specifically considering his opinion on
a. the nature of life, as it pertains to his opening line: To be, or not to be
b. the nature of death after we have shuffled off this mortal coil
c. the nature of life, as it pertains to the circumstances we must bear
d. the nature of life and the rub that keeps us from prematurely entering the undiscovered country
e. the primary factor that influences an individuals lose the name of action
Act 3, Scene 2
21. Explain how the theme of appearance versus reality is apparent in the moments prior to and while conducting the plan to
reveal the truth behind Hamlets lunacy, specifically considering
a. it irony of Hamlets advice to the players
b. the ambiguous command given by Hamlet prior to the play to Pol., Roz., and Guil.
c. Hamlets opinion of Horatios perspective on life and its relation to the overall nature of life
d. the play-within-the-plays dialogue on the nature of life (i.e. reliability of human emotion and personal relationships)
e. Hamlets responses towards Ros. and Guil.s appearance to pluck out the heart [or reality] of [his] mystery
22. The scene ends with the delivery of Hamlets fifth major soliloquy. Analyze Hamlets soliloquy, specifically considering
a. the cause of Hamlets newfound opinion of the ghosts word
b. Hamlets foreseeable action/inaction toward his mother, Gertrude
c. Hamlets foreseeable action/inaction toward his uncle, Claudius
d. the conflict that exists within Hamlets interior self

Act 3, Scene 3
23. Analyze how Shakespeare portrays Claudius struggle in choosing between action and inaction, specifically considering:
a. Claudius thoughts on what occurs when a man is double business bound
b. Claudius meditations on the twofold force of prayer
c. Claudius reasoning regarding the futility of his prayer
d. the appearance and reality of Claudius action
24. The scene ends with the delivery of Hamlets sixth major soliloquy. Analyze Hamlets soliloquy and struggle in choosing between
action and inaction, specifically considering:
a. Hamlets intended action upon entering the scene
b. Hamlets contemplations that lead to his inaction
c. Hamlets future plan on taking action against Claudius
Act 3, Scene 4
25. Analyze Shakespeares portrayal of the disconnect between appearance and reality, specifically considering:
a. Hamlets intentions on revealing the inconsistency between his own mothers appearance and reality
b. Gertrudes impression regarding Hamlets appeared intention
c. Polonius involvement in the scene and his eventual fate
d. the ambiguous authenticity of the apparition
e. Hamlets commentary on behavioral habit, authentic or in appearance only, and its relation to ones stamp of nature
f. the appearance of Hamlets mental state, and his self-proclaimed real mental state
26. Analyze Shakespeares portrayal of Hamlet in relation to action and inaction, specifically considering:
a. the factors leading to the action/inaction Hamlet takes against Polonius
b. Hamlets monologue directed toward his mother, particularly his thoughts on passion/reason as the ruling principle
c. the apparitions message to Hamlet
d. the motivation/justification of Hamlets actions
e. the indicated action/inaction Hamlet will take against two schoolfellows

Act 4, Scene 1-3


27. Analyze Shakespeares portrayal of the disconnect between appearance and reality, specifically considering:
a. the content and motive of the potential lies Claudius and Gertrude tell each other (4.1)
b. Rosencrantz and Guildensterns authenticity of self when viewed as a sponge, and their relationship with the King (4.2)
c. the action Claudius takes against Hamlet and his reasoning for not simply arresting Hamlet (4.3)
28. Analyze Shakespeares portrayal of the nature of life and death, specifically considering Hamlet's comments pertaining to:
a. the mans inevitable fate in death (4.3)
b. the actual differences between social hierarchy in human society; between the aristocracy and the poor (4.3)
Act 4, Scene 4-5
29. Although relatively short, the fourth scene in the fourth act is significant in Hamlets development as a character. Analyze
Hamlets conversation with the Norwegian Captain and his seventh (and final) major soliloquy depicting his struggle in
choosing between action and inaction, specifically considering:
a. the value of the patch of ground" Fortinbras aims to occupyconsider the diction used (i.e. craven, scruple, precisely)
b. the action/inaction Norway and Poland plan to take, and the motives behind their respective action/inaction
c. Hamlets theory on why he has not yet taken his revenge on Claudius
d. the conclusion Hamlet makes regarding Fortinbras and honor, and how Fortinbras can be seen as a foil for Hamlet
e. Hamlets future plan on taking action against Claudius
30. Analyze Act 4, Scene 5s portrayal of the disconnect between appearance and reality, and its affect on the self, considering:
a. Gertrude's interior self, as presented in her aside, and how this establishes her as foil for Ophelia
b. the meaning behind Claudius comment, when sorrows come, they come not in single spies, / But in battalions,
and its connection to Ophelias present condition (i.e. her interior and exterior self)
c. the the Gentlemans speechs (She speaks.) suggestion of happiness, or deep truths in Ophelias madness
31. Analyze Act 4, Scene 5s portrayal of action and inaction, and its affect on the self, specifically considering:
a. how Laertes can be seen as a foil for Hamlet
Act 4, Scene 6-7
32. Examine the seventh scene of act four and analyze its portrayal of action and inaction, specifically considering:
a. Claudius reasoning for not taking action against Hamlet
b. Claudius commentary on the nature of passion and its relation to action/inaction
c. Laertes response to Claudius, My lord, I will be ruled, in comparison with the reactions of other characters in
the play who are instructed or advised by characters who occupy dominant social positions
d. Ophelias ambiguous demise and its relation to action/inaction, as juxtaposed with Hamlets fourth soliloquy (p.53)
e. Shakespeares reasoning in having Gertrude notify us of Ophelias death (Hint: foil)

Act 5, Scene 1
33. The first scene of the fifth act, also known as the gravedigger scene, is one of Hamlets most famous. Analyze the scenes
portrayal of the traditional skepticism, specifically considering:
a. the gravediggers commentary on the relationship between wealth and religion
b. Horatio and Hamlets commentary on the affects of custom
c. Hamlets commentary on the distribution of respect to the dead
d. Hamlets meaning and motive in stating that the age is grown so picked, and its relation to social hierarchy
34. The first scene of the fifth act, also known as the gravedigger scene, is one of Hamlets most famous. Analyze the scenes
message on the tension the nature of life and the nature of death, specifically considering:
a. the true significance of material values (e.g. land/property)
b. the gravediggers claim that the grave is for neither a man nor a woman
c. the symbolic meaning of Yoricks skull, and Hamlets commentary on his ladys appearance
d. Hamlets meditation on Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar?
e. the difference in the scenes mood and Hamlets tone when juxtaposed with the discussion of death in Act 4, Scene
35. Examine the scene depicting Ophelias funeral ceremony by analyzing the scenes portrayal of self authenticity, considering:
a. Hamlets action/inaction upon witnessing Laertes display of grief and Hamlets affirmed feelings towards Ophelia
b. The significance of Hamlet identifying himself as Hamlet the Dane
c. the cause of Hamlets present action/inaction (i.e. Hamlets seventh soliloquy, Hamlets encounter with Yuricks skull)
d. Hamlets commentary on the Hercules and the nature of cats and dogs, as it pertains to self actualization
Act 5, Scene 2
36. Examine Hamlets final scene and analyze its portrayal of action and inaction, specifically considering:
a. Hamlets commentary on careful planning and indiscretion (in regards to action/inaction) and its relation to fate
b. the matter and motive of Hamlets action/inaction taken against Rosencrantz and Guildenstern
c. Hamlets ambiguous motive in justifying his foreseen action against Claudius (when speaking with Horatio)
d. Horatios advise to Hamlet on his entering the fencing match, and Hamlets eventual fate
e. Laertes aside just prior to wounding Hamlet, and Laertes eventual fate
f. the final cause leading to Hamlets action against Claudius
37. Examine Hamlets final scene and analyze its portrayal of the disconnect between appearance and reality, considering:
a. Hamlets commentary on the diction and behavior of Claudius royal advisor, Osric
b. the meaning and authenticity of Hamlets apologetic confession to Laertes
c. the dissolving of Claudius false appearances and the unveiling of reality
d. the relationship of appearance and reality pertaining to Fortinbras and Fortinbras eventual fate
38. Examine Hamlets final scene and analyze its portrayal of the nature of death, specifically considering:
a. Hamlets foreshadowing comment pertaining to his upcoming fencing match against Laertes
b. Hamlets meaning in stating, There is a special providence in the fall of a sparrow
c. Hamlets final statement just prior to the entrance of the royal court juxtaposed with his fourth soliloquy (p.53)
d. the meaning of Hamlets final words

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