You are in charge of your own personal log. You will decide what to write and in what form, but there are three rules:
Clearly label each entry with the act and scene number.
Write after every reading assignment.
Over the course of the play, respond to a variety of the components so that by the end you will have considered each component several times.
ENTRY 7
Act 4
Character Questions - Ophelia
(April 20th)
Character Questions: 1. What new information did you learn about your character in Act 4 that would help an actor or actress understand him or her better?
Ophelia did truly love her father. She is keep singing about her father’s death. She is also not a virgin (?), which is indicated by her father. An actor should understand why she’s suddenly singing about valentine’s day when her dad died. 2. In each scene where your character appears, what is his or her motivation and objective? In other words, what does this person really want?
She wants her brother to take revenge on the murderer. I think she’s continuously hinting at her and hamlet’s sexual intercourse in front of her brother to make him even more mad when he finds out Hamlet killed her father. 3. How does your character feel about the events in Act 4? about Hamlet?
It’s hard to tell because she’s insane.. 4. What do other characters say about your character and how do they react to him? How does your character feel about other characters?
Other characters are heartbroken by the young girl’s insanity, especially her brother. She is more depressed about her father’s death, rather than wanting to find out the murderer. 5. How does your character affect the events of each scene in which she appears? How is she affected by the events?
She interrupts Claudius and Laertes talking about their plan to kill Hamlet as Gertrude walks in their conversation announcing her death. her insanity heightens Laerte’s anger and willingness to murder Hamlet. 6. How is your character important to this act? In other words, do you learn something new about the plot through him? Do you gain any insights about Hamlet by comparing/contrasting him to your character?
Ophelia heightens Laerte’s emotions. Through this scene, readers can learn that Ophelia is a very emotional and affectionate character. But not so innocent, having slept with Hamlet, who rejects her in the end. This makes Hamlet not the nicest protagonist. 7. What questions are raised by your character's words and/or behavior in this act?
Why does she talk about having her virginity taken and being rejected by a man when her dad just died?
What was unexpected? What questions that you've previously had are answered by your character's words and /or behavior in this act?
I thought because Ophelia was one of the main characters, her death would be related to Hamlet. Her death is a bit sudden..
ENTRY 6
Act 3 Scene 1 &2 Questions
(April 16th)
Act 3 Scene 1
Answer 5 of the 8. Most of these questions are from or altered from Professor Boyer at http://english.sxu.edu/boyer/304_rdg_qst/ham_nor_qst.htm Use line numbers as guides. These are not the line numbers in our book.
1. What advice does Hamlet have for the actors? Why?
Hamlet basically trains the actors to not exaggerate any body motion and lines. He does this because he wants to pull off a scene as realistic as possible so he can see the reaction of Claudius, when he encounters the act of his crime.
2. Why does Hamlet say he especially likes Horatio (Does Hamlet see Horatio as similar to him or different from him?
Hamlet has a special affection for Horatio. I think this is because Horatio himself has full loyalty to Hamlet. For example, R and G is not entirely loyal to Hamlet. They were called by Claudius, which Hamlet knows, and is on a mission to make Hamlet happier.
4. Based on 3.2.119, how much time elapsed between Act 1 and Act 2 (since the action has been continuous since the beginning of Act 2)?
Ophelia says "Nay, ’tis twice two months, my lord" which means 4 months. This suggests that two months have passed before the play, and therefore Act 1 and Act 2 is a two month time period.
6. What is Claudius' mood as he stops the play at 3.2.247? How does Hamlet respond? If Hamlet has learned that Claudius is indeed guilty (if that's why he stopped the play and not for some other reason), Claudius has also learned something from the presentation of the play. What has Claudius learned?
Claudius leaves the room before the play ends and is terribly upset, which is what Polonius tells Hamlet after the play ends. Hamlet is sure that Claudius is guilty of his father's murder. Claudius knows that Hamlet knows his dark secret.
7. What message do Rosencrantz and Guildenstern have for Hamlet? Despite the chaos at the end of the play, is this message unexpected after hearing Polonius' suggestion at the end of the Nunnery scene (3.1)? What lesson does Hamlet teach with a recorder?
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern tells Hamlet that Gertrude, whoc is very disappointed at Hamlet for his offending actions, wishes to talk to Hamlet privately. Also, they ask his to tells them what his problem is. Hamlet suddenly becomes angry at the two and basically teaches them that they can't treat him like a recorder because he will not be played and controlled by others.
8. Read Hamlet's fifth soliloquy carefully (3.2.358-69). How is it different from the other soliloquies? What is the mood of the soliloquy? How do you react to it? What about line 360? What is happening to Hamlet?
This particular soliloquy is different from the other ones because he is basically criticizes himself and blaming his sad situation on himself, while the other soliloquies were blameful on others. He is regretful about what he has to do and even considers committing suicide.
Act 3 Scene 3
Answer 3 of the following.
2. Where is Polonius going?
Polonius goes to Gertrude's room because he is going to ear drop on the conversation between Hamlet and Gertrude behind the curtain, again.
3. What does Claudius admit in his attempt to pray? Has the play actually had an effect on him? Why can't he ask for forgiveness?
The play basically makes Claudius admit that he killed Hamlet's father. Scared of what Hamlet what may do to him, he sends him to college despite what Gertrude wants. i think Claudius is unable to ask for forgiveness because then he mights have to give up the crown.
4. What happens when Hamlet enters? Why doesn't Hamlet kill Claudius then? What is ironic about Hamlet's decision?
Hamlet finds out that Claudius killed his father but doesn't kill him but only warns him to look out for his dangered life. On the other hand, Hamlet, wihout a second of hesitation kills Polonius.
ENTRY 5
Act 3 Scene 2
(April 14th)
Summary Act 3 Scene 2
Hamlet teaches the actors how to perform the skit that will be performed in front of the king. He tells the actors to not exaggerate while they perform to make it as realistic as possible. Before the king comes in Horatio comes in and Hamlet asks him to observe Claudius’s reaction while he watches the play, which is directed towards Claudius. During the play Hamlet is constantly talking to himself. About half way through the play, Claudius is upset by the plot and leaves. After everybody leaves, Polonius tells Hamlet that Gertrude wants to talk to him silently.
1. Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is important because this scene is what basically determines what Hamlet will do, either to take revenge on his uncle or dismiss the ghost and believe it was only a demon.Without this scene, readers may have seen Hamlet as an irresponsible character, only believing what the ghost told him.
2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion? OR Ask one of the characters in the scene a question -- or ask ME a question.
Why would Claudius suddenly just leave the performance? Wouldn't he think it would be obvious that he murdered Hamlet's father if he became so upset?
3.Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
Act 3 Scene 2 Line 218 - Gertrude says "The lady protest too much, methinks."
I thought this scene was especially funny because it seemed like Gertrude felt guilty and tried to differentiate herself from the actor who, obviously, is representative of herself. Moreover, Hamlet's response is what makes it so much funnier, sarcastically saying "Oh, but she'll keep her word" (line 219).
Hamlet's Soliloquy Questions
Act 2 Scene 2
(April 14th)
It is obvious to the audience that Hamlet is alone onstage. What else, then, does he mean when he begins, “Now I am alone”?
I think it means that Hamlet is all alone, friendless in his own castle. He feels lonely after his father’s death and despises his uncle and mother. He has to lead the secrete scheme all by himself without any help.
Why is the Prince calling himself a “rogue” and “peasant slave”?
Hamlet is comparing himself to a rogue because rogues represent those who are lazy during Shakespeare’s times. His comparison to a peasant slave refers to his situation, caught in the castle under the eyes of Claudius, because of his mother’s wishes.
Hamlet compares himself to the player. What does this comparison reveal about Hamlet’s self-perception?
Hamlet is insane and he knows this, perhaps because the way people are treating him and asking him why he's mad. Hamlet might think that he isn't living a realistic, or normal, life and feel like he's putting on a play, more or less to take revenge on his uncle Claudius.
Throughout the play, much violence is done to ears. How does Hamlet’s “cleave the general ear” relate to other “ear” references? Shakespeare uses the word ear twenty-seven times in this play. Do any of these resonate with you?
Surprisingly, the reference to the ear never grabbed my attention. It is interesting that the auditory sense is seen as a negative sense. Perhaps it is because readers of the play never get to use their ear...? Honestly, I have no idea..
Hamlet uses a lot of theatrical terminology in his speech. Find some examples (“cue,” “satage,” “play”). Why might Hamlet be thinking in theatrical terms?
As I mentioned above, Hamlet is living his own play, playing a mad character living a depressing and lonely life; therefore he is thinking in theatrical terms.
Find lines or phrases that explain why Hamlet thinks himself a coward. Do you think he is a coward, or is he acting cautiously by looking for external evidence to prove Claudius’s guilt? Act 2 Scene 1 Lines 530 - 541: “Am I a coward? / Who calls me “villain”? Breaks my pate across? / Plucks off my beard and blows it in my face? / Tweaks me by the nose? Gives me the lie i' th' throat / As deep as to the lungs? Who does me this? / Ha! / 'Swounds, I should take it, for it cannot be / But I am pigeon-livered and lack gall / To make oppression bitter, or ere this / I should have fatted all the region kites / With this slave’s offal”
I don’t think he is a coward because Hamlet is willing to confront Claudius on such subject that could make him an enemy of the king. His soliloquy basically states that he will take the chance and risk to confront the king to plan a violent revenge on the king.
ENTRY 4
Act 3 Scene 1
(April 9th)
Summary Act 3 Scene 1
Claudius and Polonius spy on Hamlet and Ophelia. Hamlet basically dismisses Ophelia and says that he's never truly loved her. He says all women are evil and leaves Ophelia crying and depressed about Hamlet's reaction. After Hamlet leaves, Claudius is sure that Hamlet's insanity was not caused by his mad love for Ophelia and decides to send him to England for a recovery/vacation. Polonius says its a good idea but still thinks Hamlet's love for his daughter took part in making him crazy.
1. Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is the very first scene where Ophelia and Hamlet actually encounters and reveals the truth behind their mysterious relationship. The truth revealed allowed readers to acknowledge the real personality of Ophelia but made it more confusing for readers to question why Ophelia would've made up anything like her fake story in the first place...Without the scene Ophelia's identity would've been completely different.
2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion? OR Ask one of the characters in the scene a question -- or ask ME a question.
Ophelia, what's the truth. Did Hamlet REALLY climb to your room and showed his despaired affection for you? If not, why did you lie..?
6. Write a diary entry from the perspective of one of the characters. Get inside that character’s mind. Tell how the character feels about herself, about other characters, about the situation of the scene. Polonius' diary entry:
I can't believe that young bastard Hamlet's treating my daughter like that! Just because he's a royalty doesn't mean he can mess with my daughter like that! His love for her is so great he has truly gone insane. Claudius is saying Ophelia is not the cause of his madness but what does Claudius know. He married his brother's wife. He knows nothing about young and trendy love.
ENTRY 3
Act 2 Scene 2
(April 8th)
Summary Act 2 Scene 2
Guildenstern and Rosencrantz meets up with Hamlet, who refer Denmark as a king, and starts their conversation like ordinary young boys. Suddenly they get in a huge conversation about actors and the new drama trend. Then the actors arrive to entertain him, followed by Polonius to introduce them, whom Hamlet makes fun of. Hamlet plans to put up a play that resembles the murder of his dead father and the crime of his uncle, in front of his uncle to see the reaction of his uncle.
1. Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
Scene two was awfully long, but equally important. It had several aspects that allows the reader to predict the story, such as the fake attack of Fortinbras. However, the most entertaining scene was the scene between Hamlet and Polonius. The crazy Hamlet seems to have gained the confidence to mock elders in public. Without the scene, it would be hard to notice the changes in Hamlet and the possible outcomes of the story.
3.Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them. 2.2 - Hamlet says, "Then came each actor on his ass--" The most entertaining scene so far was when Hamlet was making fun of the old but innocent Polonius to Guildenstern and Rosencrantz. I especially liked the word "ass" because it sounded very modern, and was even suitable for young teenagers of 21st century. Compared to the Hamlet depressed and self-repressed, doing soliloquies, I prefer the more wild and self-expressing Hamlet a lot better because he seems more like an evil and exploratory character.
6. Write a diary entry from the perspective of one of the characters. Get inside that character’s mind. Tell how the character feels about herself, about other characters, about the situation of the scene. Hamlet's diary entry:
I need to escape this filthy and rotten country. I have no intention of staying here with that cheap woman who call herself a mother and a queen, that violent and dishonest piece of king and that suck up Polonius. I need time away from interruptions, obligations and distractions to think about my vocation, the ghost, my identity. If in fact the ghost is the ghost of my heroic father, then I shall take revenge on my uncle. But what would happen after wards... Am I ready to rule this country I never loved?
Scene Performance with Dabin and IlwonAct 1 Scene 5 ( - line 113)
(April 6th)
Character: Hamlet
What does your character want in the chosen scene?
Hamlet wants to find out what is up with the ghost. He wants to know what his father's soul has to tell him.
What does the character do to get it?
Hamlet follows the ghost in spite of Marcellus' warnings for possible dangers. He fights his way to the ghost.
What obstacles stand in his or her way?
Marcellus prevents him to follow the ghost because of possible dangers.
How does your character really feel about what is happening in the scene? How can you tell?
Hamlet seems to be less emotional and more curious. Although he repeatedly praises his dead father's duties done in the past, he follows his father most out of curiosity,
What do other characters say about your character in the scene?
Marcellus and Horatio says that Hamlet's imagination has made him too exploratory and worries about him.
What does the character’s language reveal about his or her personality? Think about the meaning behind his or her words. Write down a few phrases he says that might demonstrate something about his personality or are characteristic of his mode of expression.How does this scene add to your knowledge of the character?
1.5 - "O most pernicious woman! / O villain, villain, smiling damned villain! / My tables, / My tables -- meet it is I set it down / That one may smile, and smile, and be a villain. / At least I'm sure it may be so in Denmark." These are the lines that Hamlet says after he discovers the truth behind his father's death. His hatred against his uncle is intensified, including his despise for his own mother. Although Hamlet seems like a more softer character, from his previous actions such as hiding his true emotions to himself and obeying his mother's wishes to stay with her in Denmark, he is easily persuaded into completely turning his back on his family and country. This scene can be seen as a shift in the personality of the character.
ENTRY #2
Act 1 Scenes 4 & 5, Act 2 Scenes 1 & 2
(April 6th)
Summary Act 1 Scene 3
Laertes, the son of Polonius, is packing to head to college. His sister Ophelia enters and he gives advice telling her not to deeply fall in love with Hamlet, and to think of it as only as a temporary high-school flirtation. He says that Hamlet's responsibilities are too great to love her properly. Polonius arrives and Laertes leaves. Polonius also tells Ophelia to stay away from Hamlet and even grounds her to prohibit her more strictly.
Summary Act 1 Scene 4
Horatio, Marcellus and Hamlet are waiting outside to see the ghost and hears loud music. Horatio asks if it's a family tradition and Hamlet says that although it is a tradition other nations view it only as a loud, wild party and he wishes not to celebrate it with his family. The ghost appears and Hamlet questions his reason for existence. The ghost gestures to Hamlet to follow him and Horatio suggests him not to go, however Hamlet follows the ghost. Marcellus and Horatio (doesn't really want to) decides to follow him secretly for possible danger.
Summary Act 1 Scene 5
The ghost starts talking to him and tells Hamlet to get ready for a revenge against his uncle Claudius. The ghost reveals the secret of his death: although people believe it's the snake that killed him, it's actually King Claudius who poured poison in his ear. After hearing this, Hamlet is eager to take revenge on his hateful uncle. Hamlet refuses to tell Horatio and Mercellus what the ghost told him but makes them swear to never tell anybody that they've seen the ghost.
Summary Act 2 Scene 1
The scene returns to Polonius who makes his servant Reynaldo to deliver letters and money to his faraway son. However, his real intentions is to spy and hear about the real Laertes from others. He tells Reynaldo to act nothing like he's there for Laertes father's mission. Ophelia tells Polonius about Hamlet's love-sick visit to her room. Polonius regrets distrusting Hamlet as a young flirt and reconsiders the two's relationship.
Summary Act 2 Scene 2
King Claudius brings two of Hamlet's good friends: Guildenstern and Rosencrantz (argumentative) to help brighten up the changed, depressed Hamlet. Polonius arrives with the two ambassadors who've gone to Norway, Voltemand and Cornelius.
Voletemand tells Caludius that Denmark is no more in danger, after he talked to the king of Norway (Fortinbra's uncle). Fortinbras swore to never attack Denmark, which made his uncle very happy to give him presents, including the permission to lead his army to Poland, which requires Fortinbras to go through Denmark, which Voltemand has come to deliver the question.
After the ambassadors leave Polonius tells the king that Hamlet has gone crazy because of Ophelia. He and the king plan a secret spy to see if this is why Hamlet's gone crazy. Polonius and Hamlet gets in a conversation but Hamlet doesn't recognize him and tells him to take close care of his daughter before she gets pregnant.
Guildenstern and Rosencrantz meets up with Hamlet, who refer Denmark as a king, and starts their conversation like ordinary young boys. Suddenly they get in a huge conversation about actors and the new drama trend. Then the actors arrive to entertain him, followed by Polonius to introduce them, whom Hamlet makes fun of. Hamlet plans to put up a play that resembles the murder of his dead father and the crime of his uncle, in front of his uncle to see the reaction of his uncle.
1. Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
Although Act 1 scene 3 has a minor importance compared to other scenes, it gives readers insight about the other type of relationship between Polonius' family and the royal family. Without this scene, it would have been hard to gain knowledge about how other minorities view the royal family.
3.Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
2.2 - Polonius reads Hamlet's letter to Ophelia to King and Queen: “Doubt thou the stars are fire, / Doubt that the sun doth move, / Doubt truth to be a liar, / But never doubt I love. / O dear Ophelia, I am ill at these numbers. I have not art to reckon my groans, but that I love thee best, oh, most best, believe it. Adieu. / Thine evermore, most dear lady, / whilst this machine is to him, / Hamlet.”
I definitely thought there was irony within this poetic letter. First of all I have no idea if this letter was made up by Ophelia or was actually done by Hamlet with the wrong intentions, to trick the elders into thinking he's gone love crazy when he's planning a violent revenge against his uncle. For example, he writes "Doubt truth to be a liar," which basically heightens my curiosity of this letter!
5. Talk about the relationships characters have to one another, quoting specific words or phrases to give evidence for your opinion.
If I was Hamlet I would be more lonely then happy, despite the great wealth and nobility. Hamlet does not seem to have true friends, including Marcellus, Guildenstern and Rosencrantz. All three of them address him extremely formally. For example, Guildenstern says 2.2 - "My honoured lord" and Rosencrantz says "My most dear lord." Although the relationship between Hamlet and the boys of his age do not seem so intimate, Hamlet tries to treat them friendly. For example when he tells the two to reveal their real intentions, he says 2.2 - "But let me conjure you by the rights of our fellowship, but the consonancy of our youth, by the obligation of our ever-preserved love, and by what more dear a better proposer could charge you ithal, be even and direct with me..."
ENTRY #1
1.1 - 1.2
(March 31st)
Summary Act 1 Scene 1
The four characters that introduce the story, all guards: Francisco, Bernardo, Horatio and Mercellus. Francisco leaves after Bernardo arrives to take his shift. Shortly Horatio and Mercellus arrives. Both Horatio and Bernardo tells Mercellus that there is a ghost of the recently dead king. Although at first Mercellus doesn't believe such claim, after he witnesses the ghost, he starts asking questions to the ghost, who ignores him. After the ghost exits, Horatio and MErcellus decide to tell Hamlet, whom the king ghost might answer.
Summary Act 1 Scene 2
The scene shifts into the castle, where all the loyalties are, King Claudius, Queen Gertrude, Hamlet, including the chorus. Claudius makes a long speech announcing his joyful marriage to the wife of his dead brother. He tries to comfort Hamlet and asks him to stay with the family instead of going back to school. Hamlet has his soliloquy complaining about the new marriage and sorrow of his dead father. Horatio and Mercellus arrives who persuades him to go see the ghost.
1. Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
1.2 - "Though yet of Hamlet our dear brother's death.....Farewell, and let your haste commend your duty"Claudius' long speech opens up act 1 scene 2. His speech is extremely long but also very persuasive. This speech starts the readers off with a very clear picture of what happened after the death of the King, which was revealed with the ghostly figure. Without this long speech, readers could have a biased perception on the new King Claudius, because of Hamlet's extreme depression about his mother's new marriage.
2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion? OR Ask one of the characters in the scene a question -- or ask ME a question.
1.2 - Hamlet says, "Why, she would hang on him as if increase of appetite had grown By what it fed on, and yet within a month -- let me not think on't; frailty, thy name is woman -- a little month, or ere those shoes were old'It seems like Hamlet has no love or affection for his uncle Claudius. I question the real reason behind his suicidal intentions. Is it the Oedipus complex..? Does he want to marry his widowed mother? Is he simply jealous of his uncle's reign? or is it really because of his father's death?
3.Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
1.1 - Marcellus says "Does not divide the Sunday from the week. what might be toward that this sweaty haste Doth make the night joint-labourer with the day." This line basically opens up to the readers the chaos and starts to reveal the topic of drama of the story. This type of plot may be obvious but I felt like the line had insights of the culture of Denmark with a little bit of humor. Although Marcellus is anxious of the situation it sounds like he's complaining about his daily duties having to guard for possible and unpredictable attacks. This complaint of Marcellus allows readers to view these ancient and manly characters much lighter.
FORMAT
Write in your own voice. Interact with the play. Grades will be based on the thoroughness of your responses.
Entries: For each summarize each scene, then for each READING ASSIGNMENT do a minimum of THREE of the following:
1. Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion? OR Ask one of the characters in the scene a question -- or ask ME a question.
Example: 2.1 – Questions: Polonius – what’s your problem? Reynaldo – are you going to spread the bad word about Laertes? I hope you don’t. Ophelia – how strongly do you feel about Hamlet? You’d better avoid him totally before something terrible happens.
3.Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
Example: 1.1 – Horatio says “Most like. It harrows me with fear and wonder.” This line really explains to us what all three of the guards are feeling when they see this ghost. They are all frightened by it, yet they wonder why it came to them and why it is dressed the way it is. It really sets the mood for the whole scene because it lets us know that they are anxious. The first few lines in this scene really shocked me because we didn’t know anything about these characters yet they were all so nervous and jumpy. Plus they were very suspicious and cautious of everything.
4. Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Example: 1.2 – King Claudius seems like a flake to me. He seems to know what he’s talking about but to me it’s like it’s rehearsed or something. I can understand him trying to be friends with Hamlet, but it seems to me that he is just doing it to make himself look good. I don’t think he means anything of what he said to Hamlet.
5. Talk about the relationships characters have to one another, quoting specific words or phrases to give evidence for your opinion.
6. Write a diary entry from the perspective of one of the characters. Get inside that character’s mind. Tell how the character feels about herself, about other characters, about the situation of the scene.
7. At least twice, do an entry that is not writing. Draw a picture. Create a collage of characters. Draw what you think the stage should look like in a modern day production. Film yourself performing part of the scene. Create a soundtrack to the scene. Other?
ENTRY 7
Act 4
Character Questions - Ophelia
(April 20th)
Character Questions:
1. What new information did you learn about your character in Act 4 that would help an actor or actress understand him or her better?
Ophelia did truly love her father. She is keep singing about her father’s death. She is also not a virgin (?), which is indicated by her father. An actor should understand why she’s suddenly singing about valentine’s day when her dad died.
2. In each scene where your character appears, what is his or her motivation and objective? In other words, what does this person really want?
She wants her brother to take revenge on the murderer. I think she’s continuously hinting at her and hamlet’s sexual intercourse in front of her brother to make him even more mad when he finds out Hamlet killed her father.
3. How does your character feel about the events in Act 4? about Hamlet?
It’s hard to tell because she’s insane..
4. What do other characters say about your character and how do they react to him? How does your character feel about other characters?
Other characters are heartbroken by the young girl’s insanity, especially her brother. She is more depressed about her father’s death, rather than wanting to find out the murderer.
5. How does your character affect the events of each scene in which she appears? How is she affected by the events?
She interrupts Claudius and Laertes talking about their plan to kill Hamlet as Gertrude walks in their conversation announcing her death. her insanity heightens Laerte’s anger and willingness to murder Hamlet.
6. How is your character important to this act? In other words, do you learn something new about the plot through him? Do you gain any insights about Hamlet by comparing/contrasting him to your character?
Ophelia heightens Laerte’s emotions. Through this scene, readers can learn that Ophelia is a very emotional and affectionate character. But not so innocent, having slept with Hamlet, who rejects her in the end. This makes Hamlet not the nicest protagonist.
7. What questions are raised by your character's words and/or behavior in this act?
Why does she talk about having her virginity taken and being rejected by a man when her dad just died?
What was unexpected? What questions that you've previously had are answered by your character's words and /or behavior in this act?
I thought because Ophelia was one of the main characters, her death would be related to Hamlet. Her death is a bit sudden..
ENTRY 6
Act 3 Scene 1 &2 Questions
(April 16th)
Act 3 Scene 1
Answer 5 of the 8. Most of these questions are from or altered from Professor Boyer at http://english.sxu.edu/boyer/304_rdg_qst/ham_nor_qst.htm Use line numbers as guides. These are not the line numbers in our book.
1. What advice does Hamlet have for the actors? Why?
Hamlet basically trains the actors to not exaggerate any body motion and lines. He does this because he wants to pull off a scene as realistic as possible so he can see the reaction of Claudius, when he encounters the act of his crime.
2. Why does Hamlet say he especially likes Horatio (Does Hamlet see Horatio as similar to him or different from him?
Hamlet has a special affection for Horatio. I think this is because Horatio himself has full loyalty to Hamlet. For example, R and G is not entirely loyal to Hamlet. They were called by Claudius, which Hamlet knows, and is on a mission to make Hamlet happier.
4. Based on 3.2.119, how much time elapsed between Act 1 and Act 2 (since the action has been continuous since the beginning of Act 2)?
Ophelia says "Nay, ’tis twice two months, my lord" which means 4 months. This suggests that two months have passed before the play, and therefore Act 1 and Act 2 is a two month time period.
6. What is Claudius' mood as he stops the play at 3.2.247? How does Hamlet respond? If Hamlet has learned that Claudius is indeed guilty (if that's why he stopped the play and not for some other reason), Claudius has also learned something from the presentation of the play. What has Claudius learned?
Claudius leaves the room before the play ends and is terribly upset, which is what Polonius tells Hamlet after the play ends. Hamlet is sure that Claudius is guilty of his father's murder. Claudius knows that Hamlet knows his dark secret.
7. What message do Rosencrantz and Guildenstern have for Hamlet? Despite the chaos at the end of the play, is this message unexpected after hearing Polonius' suggestion at the end of the Nunnery scene (3.1)? What lesson does Hamlet teach with a recorder?
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern tells Hamlet that Gertrude, whoc is very disappointed at Hamlet for his offending actions, wishes to talk to Hamlet privately. Also, they ask his to tells them what his problem is. Hamlet suddenly becomes angry at the two and basically teaches them that they can't treat him like a recorder because he will not be played and controlled by others.
8. Read Hamlet's fifth soliloquy carefully (3.2.358-69). How is it different from the other soliloquies? What is the mood of the soliloquy? How do you react to it? What about line 360? What is happening to Hamlet?
This particular soliloquy is different from the other ones because he is basically criticizes himself and blaming his sad situation on himself, while the other soliloquies were blameful on others. He is regretful about what he has to do and even considers committing suicide.
Act 3 Scene 3
Answer 3 of the following.
2. Where is Polonius going?
Polonius goes to Gertrude's room because he is going to ear drop on the conversation between Hamlet and Gertrude behind the curtain, again.
3. What does Claudius admit in his attempt to pray? Has the play actually had an effect on him? Why can't he ask for forgiveness?
The play basically makes Claudius admit that he killed Hamlet's father. Scared of what Hamlet what may do to him, he sends him to college despite what Gertrude wants. i think Claudius is unable to ask for forgiveness because then he mights have to give up the crown.
4. What happens when Hamlet enters? Why doesn't Hamlet kill Claudius then? What is ironic about Hamlet's decision?
Hamlet finds out that Claudius killed his father but doesn't kill him but only warns him to look out for his dangered life. On the other hand, Hamlet, wihout a second of hesitation kills Polonius.
ENTRY 5
Act 3 Scene 2
(April 14th)
Summary Act 3 Scene 2
Hamlet teaches the actors how to perform the skit that will be performed in front of the king. He tells the actors to not exaggerate while they perform to make it as realistic as possible. Before the king comes in Horatio comes in and Hamlet asks him to observe Claudius’s reaction while he watches the play, which is directed towards Claudius. During the play Hamlet is constantly talking to himself. About half way through the play, Claudius is upset by the plot and leaves. After everybody leaves, Polonius tells Hamlet that Gertrude wants to talk to him silently.
1. Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is important because this scene is what basically determines what Hamlet will do, either to take revenge on his uncle or dismiss the ghost and believe it was only a demon.Without this scene, readers may have seen Hamlet as an irresponsible character, only believing what the ghost told him.
2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion? OR Ask one of the characters in the scene a question -- or ask ME a question.
Why would Claudius suddenly just leave the performance? Wouldn't he think it would be obvious that he murdered Hamlet's father if he became so upset?
3.Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
Act 3 Scene 2 Line 218 - Gertrude says "The lady protest too much, methinks."
I thought this scene was especially funny because it seemed like Gertrude felt guilty and tried to differentiate herself from the actor who, obviously, is representative of herself. Moreover, Hamlet's response is what makes it so much funnier, sarcastically saying "Oh, but she'll keep her word" (line 219).
Hamlet's Soliloquy Questions
Act 2 Scene 2
(April 14th)
It is obvious to the audience that Hamlet is alone onstage. What else, then, does he mean when he begins, “Now I am alone”?I think it means that Hamlet is all alone, friendless in his own castle. He feels lonely after his father’s death and despises his uncle and mother. He has to lead the secrete scheme all by himself without any help.
Why is the Prince calling himself a “rogue” and “peasant slave”?
Hamlet is comparing himself to a rogue because rogues represent those who are lazy during Shakespeare’s times. His comparison to a peasant slave refers to his situation, caught in the castle under the eyes of Claudius, because of his mother’s wishes.
Hamlet compares himself to the player. What does this comparison reveal about Hamlet’s self-perception?
Hamlet is insane and he knows this, perhaps because the way people are treating him and asking him why he's mad. Hamlet might think that he isn't living a realistic, or normal, life and feel like he's putting on a play, more or less to take revenge on his uncle Claudius.
Throughout the play, much violence is done to ears. How does Hamlet’s “cleave the general ear” relate to other “ear” references? Shakespeare uses the word ear twenty-seven times in this play. Do any of these resonate with you?
Surprisingly, the reference to the ear never grabbed my attention. It is interesting that the auditory sense is seen as a negative sense. Perhaps it is because readers of the play never get to use their ear...? Honestly, I have no idea..
Hamlet uses a lot of theatrical terminology in his speech. Find some examples (“cue,” “satage,” “play”). Why might Hamlet be thinking in theatrical terms?
As I mentioned above, Hamlet is living his own play, playing a mad character living a depressing and lonely life; therefore he is thinking in theatrical terms.
Find lines or phrases that explain why Hamlet thinks himself a coward. Do you think he is a coward, or is he acting cautiously by looking for external evidence to prove Claudius’s guilt?
Act 2 Scene 1 Lines 530 - 541: “Am I a coward? / Who calls me “villain”? Breaks my pate across? / Plucks off my beard and blows it in my face? / Tweaks me by the nose? Gives me the lie i' th' throat / As deep as to the lungs? Who does me this? / Ha! / 'Swounds, I should take it, for it cannot be / But I am pigeon-livered and lack gall / To make oppression bitter, or ere this / I should have fatted all the region kites / With this slave’s offal”
I don’t think he is a coward because Hamlet is willing to confront Claudius on such subject that could make him an enemy of the king. His soliloquy basically states that he will take the chance and risk to confront the king to plan a violent revenge on the king.
ENTRY 4
Act 3 Scene 1
(April 9th)
Summary Act 3 Scene 1
Claudius and Polonius spy on Hamlet and Ophelia. Hamlet basically dismisses Ophelia and says that he's never truly loved her. He says all women are evil and leaves Ophelia crying and depressed about Hamlet's reaction. After Hamlet leaves, Claudius is sure that Hamlet's insanity was not caused by his mad love for Ophelia and decides to send him to England for a recovery/vacation. Polonius says its a good idea but still thinks Hamlet's love for his daughter took part in making him crazy.
1. Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is the very first scene where Ophelia and Hamlet actually encounters and reveals the truth behind their mysterious relationship. The truth revealed allowed readers to acknowledge the real personality of Ophelia but made it more confusing for readers to question why Ophelia would've made up anything like her fake story in the first place...Without the scene Ophelia's identity would've been completely different.
2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion? OR Ask one of the characters in the scene a question -- or ask ME a question.
Ophelia, what's the truth. Did Hamlet REALLY climb to your room and showed his despaired affection for you? If not, why did you lie..?
6. Write a diary entry from the perspective of one of the characters. Get inside that character’s mind. Tell how the character feels about herself, about other characters, about the situation of the scene.
Polonius' diary entry:
I can't believe that young bastard Hamlet's treating my daughter like that! Just because he's a royalty doesn't mean he can mess with my daughter like that! His love for her is so great he has truly gone insane. Claudius is saying Ophelia is not the cause of his madness but what does Claudius know. He married his brother's wife. He knows nothing about young and trendy love.
ENTRY 3
Act 2 Scene 2
(April 8th)
Summary Act 2 Scene 2
Guildenstern and Rosencrantz meets up with Hamlet, who refer Denmark as a king, and starts their conversation like ordinary young boys. Suddenly they get in a huge conversation about actors and the new drama trend. Then the actors arrive to entertain him, followed by Polonius to introduce them, whom Hamlet makes fun of. Hamlet plans to put up a play that resembles the murder of his dead father and the crime of his uncle, in front of his uncle to see the reaction of his uncle.
1. Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
Scene two was awfully long, but equally important. It had several aspects that allows the reader to predict the story, such as the fake attack of Fortinbras. However, the most entertaining scene was the scene between Hamlet and Polonius. The crazy Hamlet seems to have gained the confidence to mock elders in public. Without the scene, it would be hard to notice the changes in Hamlet and the possible outcomes of the story.
3.Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
2.2 - Hamlet says, "Then came each actor on his ass--" The most entertaining scene so far was when Hamlet was making fun of the old but innocent Polonius to Guildenstern and Rosencrantz. I especially liked the word "ass" because it sounded very modern, and was even suitable for young teenagers of 21st century. Compared to the Hamlet depressed and self-repressed, doing soliloquies, I prefer the more wild and self-expressing Hamlet a lot better because he seems more like an evil and exploratory character.
6. Write a diary entry from the perspective of one of the characters. Get inside that character’s mind. Tell how the character feels about herself, about other characters, about the situation of the scene.
Hamlet's diary entry:
I need to escape this filthy and rotten country. I have no intention of staying here with that cheap woman who call herself a mother and a queen, that violent and dishonest piece of king and that suck up Polonius. I need time away from interruptions, obligations and distractions to think about my vocation, the ghost, my identity. If in fact the ghost is the ghost of my heroic father, then I shall take revenge on my uncle. But what would happen after wards... Am I ready to rule this country I never loved?
Scene Performance with Dabin and IlwonAct 1 Scene 5 ( - line 113)
(April 6th)
Character: Hamlet
What does your character want in the chosen scene?- Hamlet wants to find out what is up with the ghost. He wants to know what his father's soul has to tell him.
What does the character do to get it?- Hamlet follows the ghost in spite of Marcellus' warnings for possible dangers. He fights his way to the ghost.
What obstacles stand in his or her way?- Marcellus prevents him to follow the ghost because of possible dangers.
How does your character really feel about what is happening in the scene? How can you tell?- Hamlet seems to be less emotional and more curious. Although he repeatedly praises his dead father's duties done in the past, he follows his father most out of curiosity,
What do other characters say about your character in the scene?- Marcellus and Horatio says that Hamlet's imagination has made him too exploratory and worries about him.
What does the character’s language reveal about his or her personality? Think about the meaning behind his or her words. Write down a few phrases he says that might demonstrate something about his personality or are characteristic of his mode of expression. How does this scene add to your knowledge of the character?ENTRY #2
Act 1 Scenes 4 & 5, Act 2 Scenes 1 & 2
(April 6th)
Summary Act 1 Scene 3Laertes, the son of Polonius, is packing to head to college. His sister Ophelia enters and he gives advice telling her not to deeply fall in love with Hamlet, and to think of it as only as a temporary high-school flirtation. He says that Hamlet's responsibilities are too great to love her properly. Polonius arrives and Laertes leaves. Polonius also tells Ophelia to stay away from Hamlet and even grounds her to prohibit her more strictly.
Summary Act 1 Scene 4
Horatio, Marcellus and Hamlet are waiting outside to see the ghost and hears loud music. Horatio asks if it's a family tradition and Hamlet says that although it is a tradition other nations view it only as a loud, wild party and he wishes not to celebrate it with his family. The ghost appears and Hamlet questions his reason for existence. The ghost gestures to Hamlet to follow him and Horatio suggests him not to go, however Hamlet follows the ghost. Marcellus and Horatio (doesn't really want to) decides to follow him secretly for possible danger.
Summary Act 1 Scene 5
The ghost starts talking to him and tells Hamlet to get ready for a revenge against his uncle Claudius. The ghost reveals the secret of his death: although people believe it's the snake that killed him, it's actually King Claudius who poured poison in his ear. After hearing this, Hamlet is eager to take revenge on his hateful uncle. Hamlet refuses to tell Horatio and Mercellus what the ghost told him but makes them swear to never tell anybody that they've seen the ghost.
Summary Act 2 Scene 1
The scene returns to Polonius who makes his servant Reynaldo to deliver letters and money to his faraway son. However, his real intentions is to spy and hear about the real Laertes from others. He tells Reynaldo to act nothing like he's there for Laertes father's mission. Ophelia tells Polonius about Hamlet's love-sick visit to her room. Polonius regrets distrusting Hamlet as a young flirt and reconsiders the two's relationship.
Summary Act 2 Scene 2
1. Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
Although Act 1 scene 3 has a minor importance compared to other scenes, it gives readers insight about the other type of relationship between Polonius' family and the royal family. Without this scene, it would have been hard to gain knowledge about how other minorities view the royal family.
3.Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
2.2 - Polonius reads Hamlet's letter to Ophelia to King and Queen:
“Doubt thou the stars are fire, / Doubt that the sun doth move, / Doubt truth to be a liar, / But never doubt I love. / O dear Ophelia, I am ill at these numbers. I have not art to reckon my groans, but that I love thee best, oh, most best, believe it. Adieu. / Thine evermore, most dear lady, / whilst this machine is to him, / Hamlet.”
I definitely thought there was irony within this poetic letter. First of all I have no idea if this letter was made up by Ophelia or was actually done by Hamlet with the wrong intentions, to trick the elders into thinking he's gone love crazy when he's planning a violent revenge against his uncle. For example, he writes "Doubt truth to be a liar," which basically heightens my curiosity of this letter!
5. Talk about the relationships characters have to one another, quoting specific words or phrases to give evidence for your opinion.
If I was Hamlet I would be more lonely then happy, despite the great wealth and nobility. Hamlet does not seem to have true friends, including Marcellus, Guildenstern and Rosencrantz. All three of them address him extremely formally. For example, Guildenstern says 2.2 - "My honoured lord" and Rosencrantz says "My most dear lord." Although the relationship between Hamlet and the boys of his age do not seem so intimate, Hamlet tries to treat them friendly. For example when he tells the two to reveal their real intentions, he says 2.2 - "But let me conjure you by the rights of our fellowship, but the consonancy of our youth, by the obligation of our ever-preserved love, and by what more dear a better proposer could charge you ithal, be even and direct with me..."
ENTRY #1
1.1 - 1.2
(March 31st)
Summary Act 1 Scene 1The four characters that introduce the story, all guards: Francisco, Bernardo, Horatio and Mercellus. Francisco leaves after Bernardo arrives to take his shift. Shortly Horatio and Mercellus arrives. Both Horatio and Bernardo tells Mercellus that there is a ghost of the recently dead king. Although at first Mercellus doesn't believe such claim, after he witnesses the ghost, he starts asking questions to the ghost, who ignores him. After the ghost exits, Horatio and MErcellus decide to tell Hamlet, whom the king ghost might answer.
Summary Act 1 Scene 2
The scene shifts into the castle, where all the loyalties are, King Claudius, Queen Gertrude, Hamlet, including the chorus. Claudius makes a long speech announcing his joyful marriage to the wife of his dead brother. He tries to comfort Hamlet and asks him to stay with the family instead of going back to school. Hamlet has his soliloquy complaining about the new marriage and sorrow of his dead father. Horatio and Mercellus arrives who persuades him to go see the ghost.
1. Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
1.2 - "Though yet of Hamlet our dear brother's death.....Farewell, and let your haste commend your duty"Claudius' long speech opens up act 1 scene 2. His speech is extremely long but also very persuasive. This speech starts the readers off with a very clear picture of what happened after the death of the King, which was revealed with the ghostly figure. Without this long speech, readers could have a biased perception on the new King Claudius, because of Hamlet's extreme depression about his mother's new marriage.
2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion? OR Ask one of the characters in the scene a question -- or ask ME a question.
1.2 - Hamlet says, "Why, she would hang on him as if increase of appetite had grown By what it fed on, and yet within a month -- let me not think on't; frailty, thy name is woman -- a little month, or ere those shoes were old'It seems like Hamlet has no love or affection for his uncle Claudius. I question the real reason behind his suicidal intentions. Is it the Oedipus complex..? Does he want to marry his widowed mother? Is he simply jealous of his uncle's reign? or is it really because of his father's death?
3.Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
1.1 - Marcellus says "Does not divide the Sunday from the week. what might be toward that this sweaty haste Doth make the night joint-labourer with the day." This line basically opens up to the readers the chaos and starts to reveal the topic of drama of the story. This type of plot may be obvious but I felt like the line had insights of the culture of Denmark with a little bit of humor. Although Marcellus is anxious of the situation it sounds like he's complaining about his daily duties having to guard for possible and unpredictable attacks. This complaint of Marcellus allows readers to view these ancient and manly characters much lighter.
FORMAT
Write in your own voice. Interact with the play. Grades will be based on the thoroughness of your responses.
Entries: For each summarize each scene, then for each READING ASSIGNMENT do a minimum of THREE of the following:
1. Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion? OR Ask one of the characters in the scene a question -- or ask ME a question.
Example: 2.1 – Questions: Polonius – what’s your problem? Reynaldo – are you going to spread the bad word about Laertes? I hope you don’t. Ophelia – how strongly do you feel about Hamlet? You’d better avoid him totally before something terrible happens.
3.Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
Example: 1.1 – Horatio says “Most like. It harrows me with fear and wonder.” This line really explains to us what all three of the guards are feeling when they see this ghost. They are all frightened by it, yet they wonder why it came to them and why it is dressed the way it is. It really sets the mood for the whole scene because it lets us know that they are anxious. The first few lines in this scene really shocked me because we didn’t know anything about these characters yet they were all so nervous and jumpy. Plus they were very suspicious and cautious of everything.
4. Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Example: 1.2 – King Claudius seems like a flake to me. He seems to know what he’s talking about but to me it’s like it’s rehearsed or something. I can understand him trying to be friends with Hamlet, but it seems to me that he is just doing it to make himself look good. I don’t think he means anything of what he said to Hamlet.
5. Talk about the relationships characters have to one another, quoting specific words or phrases to give evidence for your opinion.
6. Write a diary entry from the perspective of one of the characters. Get inside that character’s mind. Tell how the character feels about herself, about other characters, about the situation of the scene.
7. At least twice, do an entry that is not writing. Draw a picture. Create a collage of characters. Draw what you think the stage should look like in a modern day production. Film yourself performing part of the scene. Create a soundtrack to the scene. Other?