Entries: For each summarize each scene, then for each READING ASSIGNMENT do a minimum of THREE of the following:
Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
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.
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Talk about the relationships characters have to one another, quoting specific words or phrases to give evidence for your opinion.
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.
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?
3/31/2010
Assignment #1 (Hamlet 1.1.1 ~ 1.2.260)
Summary: Act 1.1
In the beginning the play, two guards are talking while guarding a castle in Denmark. Bernardo, a guard, comes to relieve Francisco. As they were standing there the guards hear something. It turns out that it was another guard. Soon after, Francisco leaves and Bernardo is joined by Horatio and Marcello. Bernardo and Marcellus begins talking about a ghost that has been lurking around. They find it odd that the ghost looks like the past King Hamlet. Horatio doubts that there is a ghost. However, when he sees the ghost he is scared because it did look like the king with the king’s armor. When the ghost appears again, Horatio wants to talk to it. But he is unable to because the ghost disappears again without a word. As the morning approaches, Horatio suggests that they tell Prince Hamlet about the ghost. For if it really is King Hamlet, he will speak with Prince Hamlet.
Act 1.2
This act begins with King Claudius giving a speech. He announces that he recently married Gertrude, Prince Hamlet’s mother. He also mentions that Young Fortinbras wrote a letter stating that Claudius surrender the lands that King Hamlet had. Claudius decides to sent a letter to Norway (Fortinbra’ uncle) through Cornelius and Voltemand about this issue. Right after the speech, he allows Laertes to return back to France. He also asks Hamlet why he is sad and wearing black mourning clothes. Gertrude tells him to take it off but Hamlet doesn’t. Claudias persuades Hamlet to consider him as a father as he reminds him that Hamlet will be king after him. Claudius and Gertrude persuades him to not go to Wittenberg but to stay close to them. Hamlet accepts and Claudius decides to throw a party. However, once Hamlet is alone, he expresses his emotions. Hamlet wishes that he too could die. He also expresses his disgust towards his mother. Horatio enters shortly after and inform Hamlet about the ghost. Hamlet decides to keep watch with them.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
As I was reading these two acts, I could help but agree with Hamlet. When I looked through the situation with Hamlet’s eyes, I noticed that the whole situation is just...wrong. I would be furious and completely disgusted if my own mother was to marry my uncle just after the death of my father. I would have also felt anger toward Claudius for doing such a thing. What is even more annoying was when Claudius wanted Hamlet to stop sulking and think of him as a father. I would have left when they told Hamlet to stay with them. But at the same time, I think I would have stayed to make Claudius suffer. I would have planned a revenge. Maybe I would have done something that Claudius will be embarrassed about.
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.
Horatio: Oh goodness. I never that I would trust these two people. But that really is a ghost. He does look like the late King Hamlet. I wonder what would happen if Hamlet finds this out. Boy, is he in for a great shocker. I want to see his expression when I tell him of this. Hmm... I really do want to go see the queen’s wedding. I saw Hamlet standing there as if he saw a ghost himself. He looked so pale and disturbed. At first he seemed friendly. He noticed me right away. I was so embarrassed when he figured out that Iw as here to see the wedding. I was even more surprised when he said he saw a ghost. For a second there I really thought that the ghost from last night had appeared. When we told Hamlet about the King Hamlet look alike, he was really shocked. He started asking a lot of questions. I didn’t think he would believe us right away, even if it is the truth. He said he will come with us tonight. I hope that the ghost appears or I’m pretty sure Prince Hamlet will be furious at us.
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.
Queen: I’m just really curious...what is going through your head? How can you just marry him? It is because he reminds you of the kind?
Claudius: How in the world did you get the Queen to marry you? Did you threaten her or something?
4/8/2010
Assignment #2 (Hamlet 1.2.260 ~ 1.5) Summary: Act 1.2 (Above)
Act 1.3
The scene takes place in Polonius’s house. Laertes is getting ready to leave on a ship. He is saying his farewells to his sister and his father. Laertes tells his sister that Hamlet does not love her. Hamlet and Ophelia have a fling but not love. According to Laertes, this is because Hamlet has the big duty of being future king. Polonius enters and tells Laertes a bunch of advice from his clothes to how he must act. As soon as Laertes leaves, Polonius is asking Ophelia what he had said to her. Polonius also agrees with Laertes.
Act 1.4
Hamlet is outside with Horatio and Marcellus, waiting for the ghost to appear. As they were waiting, they hear gunfire and trumpets. Hamlet explains that it is just the king having a great time. Hamlet does not approve of this. When the ghost finally appears, it leads Hamlet. Horatio and Marcellus, after much debate, decides to follow Hamlet and the ghost.
Act 1.5
The ghost tells Hamlet that it/he is the ghost of King Hamlet. The ghost talks about the uncle and how he is the killer. He/it describes the death of King Hamlet and wants revenge. However, the ghost wants him to leave his mother alone. When the morning comes, Marcellus and Horatio asks Hamlet about his encounter with the ghost. Hamlet decides to act like his is crazy and makes the two swear not to tell anyone.
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
“Give thy thoughts no tongue,
Nor any unproportion’d thought his act.
Be thou familiar, but by no means vulgar.
Those friends thou hast, and their adoption tried,
Grapple them unto thy soul with hoops of steel;
But do not dull thy palm with entertainment
Of each new-hatch’d, unfledg’d comrade. Beware
Of entrance to a quarrel; but, being in,
Bear’t that the opposed may beware of thee.
Give every man thine ear, but few thy voice:
Take each man’s censure, but reserve thy judgment.
Costly thy habit as thy purse can buy,
But not express’d in fancy; rich, not gaudy:
For the apparel oft proclaims the man;
And they in France of the best rank and station
Are most select and generous chief in that.
Neither a borrower nor a lender be:
For loan oft loses both itself and friend;
And borrowing dulls the edge of husbandry.
This above all,—to thine own self be true;
And it must follow, as the night the day,
Thou canst not then be false to any man.” (Hamlet 1.3.59-80)
This is my favorite quote because this is the only part where we can see any family relationship. Hamlet’s relationship with his family is so torn up. Polonius is giving Laertes a few words before he departs. I thought that this was a bit stereotypical. This is what a father is supposed to say to a son. I felt like Shakespeare was trying to exaggerate to show the difference between their relationship to that of Hamlet and his family. This quote is important because it creates somewhat of a barrier between Hamlet and Laertes. Plus, it shows the inner thought of Polonius. He seems to care about his son too much. Almost to the point that he might have other ideas about him. It seems as though Polonius is babying Laertes which means he doesn't really trust him.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
When I first read the scene where Laertes is talking to Ophelia, I thought that it was very nice of him to give his little sister advice. But at the same time, I felt that it was too harsh on her. I have never thought of it that way, the way Laertes had put it. However, it is sensible. Hamlet may not love Ophelia as much due to his future duty. If I was in the shoes of Laertes and I had to warn my sister, I would have done the same thing. But I didn't like how Ophelia didn't deny what her brother had said. I mean if she really did love Hamlet, why not stick with him despite the fact that they "might" break up later. Ophelia should just continue with this relationship despite what her brother says. However, this does not mean that she should ignore her brother. No, this means that she should keep his advice in mind while going out with Hamlet.
Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
Why did Hamlet decide to act crazy?
Couldn’t he just act sane and still plan a revenge?
What is significant about the scene with Ophelia and Laertes?
4/6/2010
Assignment #3 (Hamlet 2.1.1 ~ 2.2.388) Summary: Act 2.1
Polonius wants his servant, Reynaldo, to go to France. He wants him to deliver a not for Laertes but also to spy on his personal life. Polonius carefully describes his plan to the servant. Ophelia enters and tells Polonius about her encounter with Hamlet. She describes his weird actions such shaking. Polonius tells Ophelia that it might be because Hamlet is lovesick.
Act 2.2
The scene takes place inside the castle. Claudius and the queen welcomes Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, friends of Hamlet. The couple wishes that his friends with cheer Hamlet up and asks that they investigate. Soon after, Polonius enters and tells Claudius that the person he sent to Norway is back. Voltimand and Cornelius enter and explain what happened in Norway. Fortinbras got in trouble and swore that he would never attack Denmark again. Instead of attaking Denmark, the king tells him to attack the Poles. The King of Norway asks Claudius to let him pass by Denmark to go and attack the Poles. Polonius tells Claudius that Hamlet is in love with his daughter. Together they make plans to see if Hamlet really is crazy in love. When Hamlet and Polonius talk, Hamlet acts weird and calls Polonius a fishmonger. When he leaves, the two friends, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, enter again. They are caught by Hamlet when he mentions that they came only because the King and Queen asked them to. Soon after, the players enter the scene. The players talk about Troy. When everyone leaves, Hamlet decides to make a trap for Claudius by making a play about he death of the king. If Claudius reacts then his assumptions are correct.
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: I see Polonius entering. I love Ophelia, but I do not like him. He is way to close to Claudius. I need to make sure to convince him that I am indeed crazy. If I fail, he will go and tell Claudius and my plans will all be ruined. I actually enjoy acting crazy. I can say whatever I want and not get in trouble for it. I called him a fishmonger. How funny is that? I can't believe that he doesn't notice the small hints I left behind about his daughter. I know that he probably made plans with my father. I must be more careful around Ophelia. Why else would Polonius come to me? They must have made a plan to trap me through Ophelia.
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?
In this scene, Hamlet uses the word FISHMONGER. Below is a picture of one:
Hamlet introduces the word fishmonger as a hint. He uses it as a hint that he knows Polonius and Claudius have set a plan with Ophelia.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene
Like what I mentioned above. I understand Hamlet's actions toward Polonius. Adding on to the above statement, Hamlet probably knows about a possible plan. This is probably obvious since Polonius has been around Claudius more than often. Hamlet is smart. He knows that the King will not just sit around with the past king's son roaming around the castle. Since the ghost warned Hamlet, he is more cautious. 4/8/2010
Assignment #4 (Hamlet 2.2.535 ~ 3.1) Summary: Act 2.2 (Above)
Act 3.1
The King and the Queen talk once more with Hamlet’s friends. The friends say that they too do not know. However, they mention that Hamlet was happy when he was watching the play. Polonius and Claudius begins to spy on Hamlet. When Hamlet enters, he thinks of committing suicide and that he is miserable. When Ophelia enters and tells Hamlet that she wants to return the love, Hamlet gets angry. Hamlet tells Ophelia that he no longer loves her. Claudius is getting worried because there is something else that is affecting Hamlet’s behavior. He decides to sent Hamlet to England.
Questions:
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 thought that he meant that he is alone as in he has no one on his side. He knows that the friends were called by the king. I thought that he meant that even his friends are now controlled by the king. Hamlet feels alone in that he doesn’t have anyone he can lean on.
Why is the Prince calling himself a “rogue” and “peasant slave”?
Maybe he doesn’t like himself for doing this. He is a slave to revenge. He is consumed by revenge that he is like a slave. Him being crazy is also like a slave. Hamlet is forced to do something that he doesn’t want to do.
Hamlet compares himself to the player. What does this comparison reveal about Hamlet’s self-perception?
I thought that he thinks that he is not worthy. He compares himself to the player that mourns for Hecuba. He questions “Had he the motive and the cue for passion That I have?” (Hamlet 2.2.566). He compares his emotions to that of the player and how the player was better in portraying it.
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?
I thought that the ear reminded me of what the ghost had said. The king had died because of a poison put into his ears. I think that Shakespeare is trying to emphasize the death of the king.
Hamlet uses a lot of theatrical terminology in his speech. Find some examples (“cue,” “satage,” “play”). Why might Hamlet be thinking in theatrical terms?
Hamlet is trying to emphasize that he is acting. I mean he is acting crazy. He is trying to think in an actor’s point of view in order to help himself.
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?
“Why, what an ass am I! This is most brave, That I, the son of a dear father murder'd,” (Hamlet 2.2.589-590). I think that he is being cautious so that he can execute his revenge plan.
4/21/2010
Assignment #5 (Hamlet 5.1)Summary (5.1)
The scene starts out with two gravediggers arguing whether or not Ophelia should be buried in he churchyard or not. One of the gravediggers argue that she should not since her death is a suicide and people who suicide should not receive a Christian burial. Hamlet and Horatio enter and watch the two gravediggers working. There are many skulls that come out as the gravediggers dig and Hamlet is wondering who they were before they died. Hamlet talks to one of the gravedigger. The gravedigger, not recognizing that he is Hamlet, tells him that he has been digging graves since the birth of Hamlet. When Hamlet picks up a skull, the gravedigger tells him that the skull belongs to King Hamlet’s jester. Hamlet then tells Horatio that he remembers him and that even the great people will turn into dust, sooner or later. While he is thinking, the funeral starts and people start to enter. People, including Claudius, Gertude, Laertes and others begin to enter. Hamlet does not know who die at this point. Hamlet later finds out, goes crazy, and tells everyone how much he loves her. Everyone things that he is crazy and the King calms Laertes, reminding him of the revenge they planned.
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?
This is the kind of grave that I thought the scene would take place in. There grave itself is a bit scary but at the same time, there are many trees and such for Hamlet and Horatio to hide behind. I thought that there will be a lot of mountains since the play takes place in Denmark before development.
Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion? OR Ask one of the characters in the scene a question
Throughout the play, Horatio has been beside Hamlet's side. What does Horatio really think of Hamlet? Could there be a possibility that Horatio also thinks that Hamlet is really crazy. I mean Hamlet did make him swear, but I want to know what Horatio really thinks about Hamlet. Could this scene be a foreshadow of what will happen? When he mentions that even the great people become dust, is it a foreshadow of something that will happen later on in the story?
4/26/2010
Assignment #6 (Hamlet 5.2)Summary (5.2)
Hamlet tells Horatio that he switched the letter that was supposed to kill him. Instead Rosencrantz and Guildenstern were executed. Their talk is interrupted by Osric who tells Hamlet that Claudius wants him to fence with Laertes. Before the game, the king says that if Hamlet hits the first two blows, he will give a cup of wine (poisoned) to Hamlet. Gertrude drinks from the poison cup. Laertes had poisoned the sword and ad hit Hamlet. However, when they were struggling, the swords were exchanged by accident. Laertes is struck with his own poison sword. Before he dies, he tells Hamlet that the king was behind the poisoning of the sword and the cup. Hamlet runs to the king, cuts him with the sword and force him to swallow the poison. In the end, everyone dies and Fortinbras is made king of Denmark.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
When the King tried to kill Hamlet, he used a poisonous gem. I thought that this was a symbol in this scene. Both the king and queen die from the poisonous gem. Usually a gem means power and wealth. In this case, the queen married Claudius because she did not want to loose power. The same goes for Claudius. He killed his brother and married Gertrude for power. In the end, both are poisoned by the gem that symbolizes wealth.
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?
I just made this through garageband. I thought that it might describe Hamlet from when he met the ghost to when everyone around him dies. I made the ending especially repetitive since everyone is dying.
Scene Questions
What does your character want in the chosen scene?
My character wants to get Hamlet to seek revenge for his father. The ghost wants to tell Hamlet about his father's death and the person who did it.
What does the character do to get it?
The character leads Hamlet into a secluded area and begins to talk.
What obstacles stand in his or her way?
The only obstacle that stands in the ghost's way is if Hamlet does not believe him.
How does your character really feel about what is happening in the scene? How can you tell?
The ghost does not have any strong feelings about this scene.
What do other characters say about your character in the scene?
Horatio and Mercellus are both afraid of the ghost.
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.
The character seems to imitate Hamlet. They have similar phrases.
Hamlet
“Hold, hold, my heart” (Hamlet 1.5.99)
Ghost
“List, list, O, list!” (Hamlet 1.5.27)
They both say “O” a lot.
How does this scene add to your knowledge of the character?
We learn that the ghost is what stirred the revenge emotion in Hamlet.
Character Question: Gertrude
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?
In the beginning, I thought that she was a caring mother who only wanted the best for Hamlet. However, I learn that she will not change. Despite her talk with Hamlet, she still goes running back to Claudius. I think that if she really loved Hamlet, more than Claudius, she would have listened to Hamlet and not go back to Claudius.
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?
1. She wants to go to Claudius and tell him about Hamlet (betrayal)
5. She does not want to see Ophelia which shows her real emotions
7. She says that Ophelia had drowned.
3. How does your character feel about the events in Act 4? about Hamlet?
She is not happy with what is going around and, not to mention, worried. Her trust in Hamlet is weak since she thinks that he really is mad. She feels pity toward Ophelia and her family.
4. What do other characters say about your character and how do they react to him? How does your character feel about other characters?
Hamlet seemed to trust her in the beginning. Claudius is still telling her that he loves her despite the events. My character is just confused. She is worried about Laertus and what he can do .
5. How does your character affect the events of each scene in which she appears? How is she affected by the events?
The main event that she has a huge influence is on the scene where she tells Claudius about Hamlet. This forces Claudius to take a more dramatic decision about 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?
We learn information such as Ophelia’s death and Hamlet’s situation. She is the main source of the little information that we need. I can tell that she is really different from Hamlet, even if they are blood related.
7. What questions are raised by your character's words and/or behavior in this act?
Is she really aware of Claudius and what he did? Did she betray Hamlet for a reason? Is she trying to save Hamlet by forcing Claudius to send him away?
8. What was unexpected? What questions that you've previously had are answered by your character's words and /or behavior in this act?
Her betrayal was really unexpected. I can see that she loves Claudius and that she didn’t just marry him.
Hamlet Log
Entries: For each summarize each scene, then for each READING ASSIGNMENT do a minimum of THREE of the following:3/31/2010
Assignment #1 (Hamlet 1.1.1 ~ 1.2.260)
Summary:
Act 1.1
In the beginning the play, two guards are talking while guarding a castle in Denmark. Bernardo, a guard, comes to relieve Francisco. As they were standing there the guards hear something. It turns out that it was another guard. Soon after, Francisco leaves and Bernardo is joined by Horatio and Marcello. Bernardo and Marcellus begins talking about a ghost that has been lurking around. They find it odd that the ghost looks like the past King Hamlet. Horatio doubts that there is a ghost. However, when he sees the ghost he is scared because it did look like the king with the king’s armor. When the ghost appears again, Horatio wants to talk to it. But he is unable to because the ghost disappears again without a word. As the morning approaches, Horatio suggests that they tell Prince Hamlet about the ghost. For if it really is King Hamlet, he will speak with Prince Hamlet.
Act 1.2
This act begins with King Claudius giving a speech. He announces that he recently married Gertrude, Prince Hamlet’s mother. He also mentions that Young Fortinbras wrote a letter stating that Claudius surrender the lands that King Hamlet had. Claudius decides to sent a letter to Norway (Fortinbra’ uncle) through Cornelius and Voltemand about this issue. Right after the speech, he allows Laertes to return back to France. He also asks Hamlet why he is sad and wearing black mourning clothes. Gertrude tells him to take it off but Hamlet doesn’t. Claudias persuades Hamlet to consider him as a father as he reminds him that Hamlet will be king after him. Claudius and Gertrude persuades him to not go to Wittenberg but to stay close to them. Hamlet accepts and Claudius decides to throw a party. However, once Hamlet is alone, he expresses his emotions. Hamlet wishes that he too could die. He also expresses his disgust towards his mother. Horatio enters shortly after and inform Hamlet about the ghost. Hamlet decides to keep watch with them.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
As I was reading these two acts, I could help but agree with Hamlet. When I looked through the situation with Hamlet’s eyes, I noticed that the whole situation is just...wrong. I would be furious and completely disgusted if my own mother was to marry my uncle just after the death of my father. I would have also felt anger toward Claudius for doing such a thing. What is even more annoying was when Claudius wanted Hamlet to stop sulking and think of him as a father. I would have left when they told Hamlet to stay with them. But at the same time, I think I would have stayed to make Claudius suffer. I would have planned a revenge. Maybe I would have done something that Claudius will be embarrassed about.
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.
Horatio: Oh goodness. I never that I would trust these two people. But that really is a ghost. He does look like the late King Hamlet. I wonder what would happen if Hamlet finds this out. Boy, is he in for a great shocker. I want to see his expression when I tell him of this. Hmm... I really do want to go see the queen’s wedding. I saw Hamlet standing there as if he saw a ghost himself. He looked so pale and disturbed. At first he seemed friendly. He noticed me right away. I was so embarrassed when he figured out that Iw as here to see the wedding. I was even more surprised when he said he saw a ghost. For a second there I really thought that the ghost from last night had appeared. When we told Hamlet about the King Hamlet look alike, he was really shocked. He started asking a lot of questions. I didn’t think he would believe us right away, even if it is the truth. He said he will come with us tonight. I hope that the ghost appears or I’m pretty sure Prince Hamlet will be furious at us.
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.
Queen: I’m just really curious...what is going through your head? How can you just marry him? It is because he reminds you of the kind?
Claudius: How in the world did you get the Queen to marry you? Did you threaten her or something?
4/8/2010
Assignment #2 (Hamlet 1.2.260 ~ 1.5)
Summary:
Act 1.2 (Above)
Act 1.3
The scene takes place in Polonius’s house. Laertes is getting ready to leave on a ship. He is saying his farewells to his sister and his father. Laertes tells his sister that Hamlet does not love her. Hamlet and Ophelia have a fling but not love. According to Laertes, this is because Hamlet has the big duty of being future king. Polonius enters and tells Laertes a bunch of advice from his clothes to how he must act. As soon as Laertes leaves, Polonius is asking Ophelia what he had said to her. Polonius also agrees with Laertes.
Act 1.4
Hamlet is outside with Horatio and Marcellus, waiting for the ghost to appear. As they were waiting, they hear gunfire and trumpets. Hamlet explains that it is just the king having a great time. Hamlet does not approve of this. When the ghost finally appears, it leads Hamlet. Horatio and Marcellus, after much debate, decides to follow Hamlet and the ghost.
Act 1.5
The ghost tells Hamlet that it/he is the ghost of King Hamlet. The ghost talks about the uncle and how he is the killer. He/it describes the death of King Hamlet and wants revenge. However, the ghost wants him to leave his mother alone. When the morning comes, Marcellus and Horatio asks Hamlet about his encounter with the ghost. Hamlet decides to act like his is crazy and makes the two swear not to tell anyone.
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
“Give thy thoughts no tongue,
Nor any unproportion’d thought his act.
Be thou familiar, but by no means vulgar.
Those friends thou hast, and their adoption tried,
Grapple them unto thy soul with hoops of steel;
But do not dull thy palm with entertainment
Of each new-hatch’d, unfledg’d comrade. Beware
Of entrance to a quarrel; but, being in,
Bear’t that the opposed may beware of thee.
Give every man thine ear, but few thy voice:
Take each man’s censure, but reserve thy judgment.
Costly thy habit as thy purse can buy,
But not express’d in fancy; rich, not gaudy:
For the apparel oft proclaims the man;
And they in France of the best rank and station
Are most select and generous chief in that.
Neither a borrower nor a lender be:
For loan oft loses both itself and friend;
And borrowing dulls the edge of husbandry.
This above all,—to thine own self be true;
And it must follow, as the night the day,
Thou canst not then be false to any man.” (Hamlet 1.3.59-80)
This is my favorite quote because this is the only part where we can see any family relationship. Hamlet’s relationship with his family is so torn up. Polonius is giving Laertes a few words before he departs. I thought that this was a bit stereotypical. This is what a father is supposed to say to a son. I felt like Shakespeare was trying to exaggerate to show the difference between their relationship to that of Hamlet and his family. This quote is important because it creates somewhat of a barrier between Hamlet and Laertes. Plus, it shows the inner thought of Polonius. He seems to care about his son too much. Almost to the point that he might have other ideas about him. It seems as though Polonius is babying Laertes which means he doesn't really trust him.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
When I first read the scene where Laertes is talking to Ophelia, I thought that it was very nice of him to give his little sister advice. But at the same time, I felt that it was too harsh on her. I have never thought of it that way, the way Laertes had put it. However, it is sensible. Hamlet may not love Ophelia as much due to his future duty. If I was in the shoes of Laertes and I had to warn my sister, I would have done the same thing. But I didn't like how Ophelia didn't deny what her brother had said. I mean if she really did love Hamlet, why not stick with him despite the fact that they "might" break up later. Ophelia should just continue with this relationship despite what her brother says. However, this does not mean that she should ignore her brother. No, this means that she should keep his advice in mind while going out with Hamlet.
Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
Why did Hamlet decide to act crazy?
Couldn’t he just act sane and still plan a revenge?
What is significant about the scene with Ophelia and Laertes?
4/6/2010
Assignment #3 (Hamlet 2.1.1 ~ 2.2.388)
Summary:
Act 2.1
Polonius wants his servant, Reynaldo, to go to France. He wants him to deliver a not for Laertes but also to spy on his personal life. Polonius carefully describes his plan to the servant. Ophelia enters and tells Polonius about her encounter with Hamlet. She describes his weird actions such shaking. Polonius tells Ophelia that it might be because Hamlet is lovesick.
Act 2.2
The scene takes place inside the castle. Claudius and the queen welcomes Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, friends of Hamlet. The couple wishes that his friends with cheer Hamlet up and asks that they investigate. Soon after, Polonius enters and tells Claudius that the person he sent to Norway is back. Voltimand and Cornelius enter and explain what happened in Norway. Fortinbras got in trouble and swore that he would never attack Denmark again. Instead of attaking Denmark, the king tells him to attack the Poles. The King of Norway asks Claudius to let him pass by Denmark to go and attack the Poles. Polonius tells Claudius that Hamlet is in love with his daughter. Together they make plans to see if Hamlet really is crazy in love. When Hamlet and Polonius talk, Hamlet acts weird and calls Polonius a fishmonger. When he leaves, the two friends, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, enter again. They are caught by Hamlet when he mentions that they came only because the King and Queen asked them to. Soon after, the players enter the scene. The players talk about Troy. When everyone leaves, Hamlet decides to make a trap for Claudius by making a play about he death of the king. If Claudius reacts then his assumptions are correct.
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: I see Polonius entering. I love Ophelia, but I do not like him. He is way to close to Claudius. I need to make sure to convince him that I am indeed crazy. If I fail, he will go and tell Claudius and my plans will all be ruined. I actually enjoy acting crazy. I can say whatever I want and not get in trouble for it. I called him a fishmonger. How funny is that? I can't believe that he doesn't notice the small hints I left behind about his daughter. I know that he probably made plans with my father. I must be more careful around Ophelia. Why else would Polonius come to me? They must have made a plan to trap me through Ophelia.
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?
In this scene, Hamlet uses the word FISHMONGER. Below is a picture of one:
Hamlet introduces the word fishmonger as a hint. He uses it as a hint that he knows Polonius and Claudius have set a plan with Ophelia.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene
Like what I mentioned above. I understand Hamlet's actions toward Polonius. Adding on to the above statement, Hamlet probably knows about a possible plan. This is probably obvious since Polonius has been around Claudius more than often. Hamlet is smart. He knows that the King will not just sit around with the past king's son roaming around the castle. Since the ghost warned Hamlet, he is more cautious.
4/8/2010
Assignment #4 (Hamlet 2.2.535 ~ 3.1)
Summary:
Act 2.2 (Above)
Act 3.1
The King and the Queen talk once more with Hamlet’s friends. The friends say that they too do not know. However, they mention that Hamlet was happy when he was watching the play. Polonius and Claudius begins to spy on Hamlet. When Hamlet enters, he thinks of committing suicide and that he is miserable. When Ophelia enters and tells Hamlet that she wants to return the love, Hamlet gets angry. Hamlet tells Ophelia that he no longer loves her. Claudius is getting worried because there is something else that is affecting Hamlet’s behavior. He decides to sent Hamlet to England.
Questions:
- It is obvious to the audience that Hamlet is alone onstage. What else, then, does he mean when he begins, “Now I am alone”?
- Why is the Prince calling himself a “rogue” and “peasant slave”?
- Hamlet compares himself to the player. What does this comparison reveal about Hamlet’s self-perception?
- 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?
- Hamlet uses a lot of theatrical terminology in his speech. Find some examples (“cue,” “satage,” “play”). Why might Hamlet be 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?
4/21/2010I thought that he meant that he is alone as in he has no one on his side. He knows that the friends were called by the king. I thought that he meant that even his friends are now controlled by the king. Hamlet feels alone in that he doesn’t have anyone he can lean on.
Maybe he doesn’t like himself for doing this. He is a slave to revenge. He is consumed by revenge that he is like a slave. Him being crazy is also like a slave. Hamlet is forced to do something that he doesn’t want to do.
I thought that he thinks that he is not worthy. He compares himself to the player that mourns for Hecuba. He questions “Had he the motive and the cue for passion That I have?” (Hamlet 2.2.566). He compares his emotions to that of the player and how the player was better in portraying it.
I thought that the ear reminded me of what the ghost had said. The king had died because of a poison put into his ears. I think that Shakespeare is trying to emphasize the death of the king.
Hamlet is trying to emphasize that he is acting. I mean he is acting crazy. He is trying to think in an actor’s point of view in order to help himself.
“Why, what an ass am I! This is most brave, That I, the son of a dear father murder'd,” (Hamlet 2.2.589-590). I think that he is being cautious so that he can execute his revenge plan.
Assignment #5 (Hamlet 5.1)Summary (5.1)
The scene starts out with two gravediggers arguing whether or not Ophelia should be buried in he churchyard or not. One of the gravediggers argue that she should not since her death is a suicide and people who suicide should not receive a Christian burial. Hamlet and Horatio enter and watch the two gravediggers working. There are many skulls that come out as the gravediggers dig and Hamlet is wondering who they were before they died. Hamlet talks to one of the gravedigger. The gravedigger, not recognizing that he is Hamlet, tells him that he has been digging graves since the birth of Hamlet. When Hamlet picks up a skull, the gravedigger tells him that the skull belongs to King Hamlet’s jester. Hamlet then tells Horatio that he remembers him and that even the great people will turn into dust, sooner or later. While he is thinking, the funeral starts and people start to enter. People, including Claudius, Gertude, Laertes and others begin to enter. Hamlet does not know who die at this point. Hamlet later finds out, goes crazy, and tells everyone how much he loves her. Everyone things that he is crazy and the King calms Laertes, reminding him of the revenge they planned.
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?
This is the kind of grave that I thought the scene would take place in. There grave itself is a bit scary but at the same time, there are many trees and such for Hamlet and Horatio to hide behind. I thought that there will be a lot of mountains since the play takes place in Denmark before development.
Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion? OR Ask one of the characters in the scene a question
Throughout the play, Horatio has been beside Hamlet's side. What does Horatio really think of Hamlet? Could there be a possibility that Horatio also thinks that Hamlet is really crazy. I mean Hamlet did make him swear, but I want to know what Horatio really thinks about Hamlet. Could this scene be a foreshadow of what will happen? When he mentions that even the great people become dust, is it a foreshadow of something that will happen later on in the story?
4/26/2010
Assignment #6 (Hamlet 5.2)Summary (5.2)
Hamlet tells Horatio that he switched the letter that was supposed to kill him. Instead Rosencrantz and Guildenstern were executed. Their talk is interrupted by Osric who tells Hamlet that Claudius wants him to fence with Laertes. Before the game, the king says that if Hamlet hits the first two blows, he will give a cup of wine (poisoned) to Hamlet. Gertrude drinks from the poison cup. Laertes had poisoned the sword and ad hit Hamlet. However, when they were struggling, the swords were exchanged by accident. Laertes is struck with his own poison sword. Before he dies, he tells Hamlet that the king was behind the poisoning of the sword and the cup. Hamlet runs to the king, cuts him with the sword and force him to swallow the poison. In the end, everyone dies and Fortinbras is made king of Denmark.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
When the King tried to kill Hamlet, he used a poisonous gem. I thought that this was a symbol in this scene. Both the king and queen die from the poisonous gem. Usually a gem means power and wealth. In this case, the queen married Claudius because she did not want to loose power. The same goes for Claudius. He killed his brother and married Gertrude for power. In the end, both are poisoned by the gem that symbolizes wealth.
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?
I just made this through garageband. I thought that it might describe Hamlet from when he met the ghost to when everyone around him dies. I made the ending especially repetitive since everyone is dying.
Scene Questions
My character wants to get Hamlet to seek revenge for his father. The ghost wants to tell Hamlet about his father's death and the person who did it.
The character leads Hamlet into a secluded area and begins to talk.
The only obstacle that stands in the ghost's way is if Hamlet does not believe him.
The ghost does not have any strong feelings about this scene.
Horatio and Mercellus are both afraid of the ghost.
The character seems to imitate Hamlet. They have similar phrases.
Hamlet
“Hold, hold, my heart” (Hamlet 1.5.99)
Ghost
“List, list, O, list!” (Hamlet 1.5.27)
They both say “O” a lot.
We learn that the ghost is what stirred the revenge emotion in Hamlet.
Character Question: Gertrude
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?
In the beginning, I thought that she was a caring mother who only wanted the best for Hamlet. However, I learn that she will not change. Despite her talk with Hamlet, she still goes running back to Claudius. I think that if she really loved Hamlet, more than Claudius, she would have listened to Hamlet and not go back to Claudius.
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?
1. She wants to go to Claudius and tell him about Hamlet (betrayal)
5. She does not want to see Ophelia which shows her real emotions
7. She says that Ophelia had drowned.
3. How does your character feel about the events in Act 4? about Hamlet?
She is not happy with what is going around and, not to mention, worried. Her trust in Hamlet is weak since she thinks that he really is mad. She feels pity toward Ophelia and her family.
4. What do other characters say about your character and how do they react to him? How does your character feel about other characters?
Hamlet seemed to trust her in the beginning. Claudius is still telling her that he loves her despite the events. My character is just confused. She is worried about Laertus and what he can do .
5. How does your character affect the events of each scene in which she appears? How is she affected by the events?
The main event that she has a huge influence is on the scene where she tells Claudius about Hamlet. This forces Claudius to take a more dramatic decision about 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?
We learn information such as Ophelia’s death and Hamlet’s situation. She is the main source of the little information that we need. I can tell that she is really different from Hamlet, even if they are blood related.
7. What questions are raised by your character's words and/or behavior in this act?
Is she really aware of Claudius and what he did? Did she betray Hamlet for a reason? Is she trying to save Hamlet by forcing Claudius to send him away?
8. What was unexpected? What questions that you've previously had are answered by your character's words and /or behavior in this act?
Her betrayal was really unexpected. I can see that she loves Claudius and that she didn’t just marry him.