1.1 Summary
Last night, while Bernardo and Mercellus were standing watch, ghost of Fortinbras, King of Norway showed himself upon them. However, Horatio does not believe the other two and stands watch the next night, sure enough, the ghost shows itself again but does not talk. The guards determine that it will be of utmost importance to report the incident to Hamlet.
Importance
As the first scene of the whole play, it is important in the aspect that it describes the setting. Without the scene, the readers would be thrown straight into the conflict of the story without the introduction to the ghost. Neither would the readers know where the play is taking place or when. In consequence, everything would be confused for the readers.
Scene
1.1.139 - Marcellus says “It faded on the crowing of the cock. Some say that ever ‘gainst that season comes wherein our Saviour’s birth is celebrated, the bird of dawning sigeth all night long’ and then, they say, no spirit can walk abroad, the nights are wholesome,then no planets strike, no fairy takes, nor witch hath power to charm, so hallowed and so gracious is the time.” From the first few lines, we have determined that the play takes during the Medieval times. The scene is silly and ironic at the same time. It is silly because during the Medieval times, everyone believed in God and that was their life. However, such a quick transition within the soldiers to a superstition when explaining the ghost shows how silly the three are. But the scene is ironic at the same time because the soldiers fail to recognize that it might be because of their social status that the King’s ghost refuses to speak.
Horatio
I feel like Horatio is going to be an important character in the play because he shows courage. While the other two soldiers fail to talk to the ghost during the first night because of lack of courage. However, although the play says that Horatio was trembling, he is the one who actually speaks to the ghost. And from reading the next scene, I could see that Hamlet recognized Horatio first out of the group of them--showing importance.
1.2 Summary
The royal family is introduced. King Claudius, Queen Gertrude and Hamlet--their cousin. Start of the scene, Cornelius, Voltemand, and Laertes are sent of to Norway to take care of certain business that has occurred. Afterward, Gertrude tells Hamlet that everybody in the bloodline has lost their father, foreshadowing what might happen during the play and begs Hamlet to not leave to Norway. Unfortunately, Horatio and his group of soldiers arrive at the scene to inform of Fortinbras and sparks the interests of Hamlet--leading him towards Norway.
Importance
If the last scene was about introducing the setting to the readers, scene two foreshadows the plot for the readers. First, when Gertrude talks about the father's dying, she foreshadows that some conflict will occur to Claudius while Hamlet is off to take care of the ghost of Fortinbras. Not only that but also the readers can infer from the talking between Hamlet and Horatio that they will be important figures within the play in terms of plot. As soon as Horatio enters the scene, despite the fact that he is merely a liegeman, Hamlet recognizes him. We can tell from this that the conflict will occur around the two characters.
Scene
1.2.65 - Hamlet says "A little more than kin, and less than kind." Right after Claudius declares that Hamlet is like a son to him, Hamlet clearly distinguishes himself from the family by saying that he is a little more than a mere citizen but less than a family. Why is that so? When we think of a cousin, we often times say that they are our family and of our blood relations. It seems from the line that Hamlet is reluctant to become anything related to Claudius. Maybe, later in the play a secret will be revealed to us that we can relate back to the quote.
Claudius
Although Claudius is the rightful King, he does not and cannot exert much power over Hamlet. Like before, he tried to claim Hamlet as his son but Hamlet does not listen. And just comparing the way Hamlet speaks to reply to Claudius and Gertrude shows how insignificant Claudius is to Hamlet. While Hamlet addresses Gertrude as "madam" in line 120, we cannot see anywhere within the scene where Hamlet would recognize Claudius as a superior.
1.3 Summary
Ophelia dwells about Hamlet to Laertes. Laertes warns Ophelia that although it may seem that Hamlet loves Ophelia as of now, he believes that his love will not last. Then, Laertes leaves for Denmark. Wondering about the talk between the two, Polonius asks about the conversation and agrees with Laertes that Hamlet's love for Ophelia is only temporary.
Importance
We can see from the conversation between Polonius and Ophelia that although in the previous scenes, Polonius treats Hamlet like his own child, that is not his intentions. Polonius' inner mind is shown through his talk about Hamlet and about his not-lasting-love. And it seems like the conflict between the two leaders will be one of importance to the readers later.
Scene
1.3.33-37 Laertes says "Fear it, Ophelia, fear it, my dear sister, and keep within the rear of your affection, out of the shot and danger of desire. The chariest maid is prodigal enough if she unmask her beauty to the moon." So far in the play, Laertes has not shown any favoritism towards any of the leaders. But from the quote above, the readers can infer that he is on the side of Laertes therefore that of Polonius. He, for some unknown reason, despises Hamlet's love towards Ophelia.
Laertes
Brother of Ophelia, he will have a great influence over what his sister thinks. In the scene, he asserts his opinion of Hamlet's love and says that he only wants her virginity and his love will not last. By saying so, it had hurt Ophelia's feelings as she claims that she has seen the tender feelings in Hamlet's love. Not only that but also he supports the opinions of Polonius rather than Hamlet.
1.4 Summary
Hamlet finally moves to where Horatio had last spotted the ghost and waits with Marcellus and Horatio. He asks of the time and it is twelve a clock. The ghost shows itself and beckons Hamlet to follow. Although there is a little debate within the three, Hamlet's mind seems to have been decided from the start and goes along with the ghost. The ghost still does not speak.
Importance
It is the first time that the ghost actually pointed at somebody within the play, which reconfirms the importance of the ghost in relation to Hamlet. The two guards' personality also shows as Horatio recommends Hamlet to follow the ghost at once whereas Marcellus tries to stop Hamlet from going.
Horatio
Although at first Horatio says that the ghost wants Hamlet to follow it and that he should, after Marcellus' opinion, he quickly changes his mind. From the start of the book, the characteristic of quickly changing his mind has been spotted. At first, he did not want to speak to the ghost and then when he was pushed by his peers, he did. The readers can see that later in the story, Horatio might be pushed to take certain actions that he does not want to because of his personality.
Hamlet
Once again, the readers are awed by the bravery and courage that Hamlet shows towards the readers. Many people might be freaked out by the sight of a ghost, Hamlet does not back away and thinks clearly about his options with the soldiers. We can tell from this that Hamlet does indeed possess the qualities of a King.
1.5 Summary
Within the scene, the ghost finally speaks for the first time. And he only addresses Hamlet about his death. He reveals himself as the father of Hamlet and that he had been brutally murdered. However, the conversation is cut off in the middle as the ghost suddenly disappears, leaving much unanswered questions to Hamlet. Then, Hamlet makes the two soldiers swear on his sword not to ever reveal to anybody what they had seen that night.
Importance
The readers can finally see what the main conflict of the story is: resolving of the 'unnatural murder' of Hamlet's father. The ghost claims in his speech that the one who had killed him took the throne from him. And directly points out Polonius as the one murderer. The readers are left with questions as Hamlet does not yet reveal his course of action to revenge.
Horatio & Marcellus
The two soldiers are always by Hamlet's side, no matter the situation. It seems almost as if they are bodyguards to Hamlet. They show their royalty by swearing upon the sword of Hamlet that they will never tell the story of the night. The readers do not know yet if the promise will be kept.
Hamlet
It is important to evaluate the emotion that Hamlet is feeling right now. After Hamlet hears that his father has been murdered, from what I can feel, he is MAD. He is full of vengeful. And from the point where he makes the two soldiers make the oath, he seems determined to accomplish what his father had asked of him.
2.1 Summary
Polonius does not plan to stand still and get attacked by Hamlet if he does find out. He sends a spy, Reynoldo, along where Hamlet resides to report to him about everything that Hamlet does. Although the soldier questions about the actions a little bit, he soon overcomes these questions and does what Polonius asks of him. Then, Polonius has to deal with Ophelia's problem. She came to him and said that Hamlet had grabbed her by the wrist and made a move that seemed too passionate. Polonius says that he'll report to the King about the problem.
Importance
The fight between the two has finally begun. Hamlet plans at Denmark of how to revenge and recognizing such moves, Polonius sends a spy. The conflict is soon to begin and there are many foreshadows of action beginning.
Scene
2.1.75 Polonius says "Farewell.--How now, Ophelia, what's the matter?" Although Hamlet is the son of Ophelia, it seems as if she does not want him anymore. She starts to participate in a scapegoat with Polonius in a plan to overthrow Hamlet as a whole and give full powers to Polonius for his succession.
Reynoldo
The spy is sent by Polonius to commit acts that are not normally carried out by normal soldiers. And at start, he questions Polonius' orders a little bit but soon believes that what he is committing is the right action. Such occurrence reminds me of Hitler and the Nazis.
Nunnery Scene Comparison
Stage (Castle / Mirrors / Shadows)
Presence of Polonius & Claudius (from the start / in the middle / at the end)
Reaction of Ophelia (indifferent / betrayed / loving
Reaction of Polonius & Claudius (enraged / runs away / walks into stage)
Reaction of Hamlet (acting / crazy / sentimental)
Placement of characters (facing away / facing each other)
Point of View (bird's eye view / point of view / third person view)
The item which Ophelia returns (necklace / thick packet / letters)
Reaction of Hamlet with the item that is returned (throws the necklace on the floor / rejects to accept the gift / rips the letters)
3.2 Summary
Hamlet puts on a play for Gertrude to watch. The play is basically about the murder that she had committed and her early marriage with Claudius. Hamlet puts on the play because he believes that by watching the reaction of Gertrude, he'll be able to figure out if Gertrude feels any regret at all from murdering her husband. He also plays a mind game with Polonius and Claudius by flirting with Ophelia during the play. He asks constantly if he can lie in the laps of Ophelia and does so.
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”?
He says, "now I am alone" because he believes he is alone in this fight against Polonius and Claudius. Beforehand, he believed that if Gertrude's reactions had been different, he could count on her for assistance but it seemed not so. Not only that but also Ophelia showed signs of loyalty to her father, disappointing Hamlet.
Why is the Prince calling himself a “rogue” and “peasant slave”?
Hamlet is calling himself a rogue because he believes that he has not done much for his King during his day and during the time, the rogues did not have much to do. By staying 'idle' he calls himself a rogue. And a peasant slave because he has lived a life commanded by others. He did not know the truth of his father's death until recently and lived under the Murderer--ordered around. Because he lived like a life of a servant, he calls himself a peasant slave.
*Hamlet compares himself to the player. What does this comparison reveal about Hamlet’s self-perception?
An actor comparing the social status to a Prince, is lowly ranked. I believe that actors were among the lowest social statuses during the time of Shakespeare. Since such is the case, when Hamlet compares himself to an Actor, he is lowering himself for the acts that he has committed during his life time and also comparing his lack of knowledge to that of an Actor's.
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?
From the start of the play, "ear" plays an important role because what did Hamlet hear? He heard that his father had died of 'natural causes' if I am correct. However, ironically, he died from being poisoned through an ear. Not only that but also Hamlet hears that his father died in such a way through the ear by a ghost. Obviously, the body part is of an utmost importance to Shakespeare and his theme; Which might be along the lines of do not blindly accept the truth.
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 thinking in terms of theatrical terms because he suspects that Gertrude is in a play of her own. She pretends to be the most innocent one and is actually the cause of Hamlet's distress. Not only that but also Hamlet himself is in a play. In a play to take Claudius down. He acts in front of Ophelia and also acts in front of, basically, everybody to achieve his means.
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?
2.2.540 - Hamlet says, "But in a fiction, in a dream of passion, could force his soul so to his whole conceit that from her working all his visage wanned, tears in his eyes..." The readers can infer from this line that "in a dream of passion" Hamlet would like to revenge right at this moment, however, he does not have the bravery to do so. However, do not be fooled by his speech. He is actually acitng caustiously by looking for external evidence to prove Claudius' guilt.
3.3 Summary
Claudius sends Rosencrantz and Guildenstern after Hamlet to England. As a part of his plan to bring down Hamlet, Claudius plans carefully on how Hamlet should be killed because the people love him, if he just gets murdered, it would cause a lot of trouble within the nation. After sending them away, Claudius kneels to pray at the altar and confesses that his sins have gotten bigger than he had imagined and regrets it. Hearing such a confession, Hamlet ponders rather he should kill Claudius or not but decides against it.
Claudius
Before the scene, the audience was given an impression of Claudius that he is a cold-hearted murderer that kills his own brother for the lust of power. However, here, we can see that from his praying and his confession of his sins that he is not. Although Claudius had once made a mistake, he did not wish it would get bigger and include Hamlet as well. From this, we can infer his good nature.
Polonius
Unfortunate that he is so loyal to Claudius. But at the same time, it seems that Polonius is jealous of the relationship between Claudius and Gertrude. Yes, Hamlet is going to see Gertrude but she is his mother, I do not see what is so wrong about such an action. It can only be concluded from the action that Polonius is somewhat interested in Gertrude.
Scene
In Act 3, Scene 3, Hamlet says, "And so he goes to heaven; / And so am i revenged. That would be scanned. / A villain kills my father ' and for that / I, his sole son, do this same villain send / to heaven." We can tell from the determination that Hamlet shows within his soliloquy that the time for his revenge is approaching. This speech that he gave right here stands as hard proof.
3.4 Summary
Basically, Hamlet and Gertrude are discussing the matters of Gertrude's adultery after Hamlet's father's death in Gertrude's room. When Hamlet gets physical and makes movements that seemed like he would hurt his own mother. So, out of desperation she called out for help and Polonius (who was hiding behind a tapestry in Gertrude's room) called out for help as well. In consequence, Hamlet kills the poor man.
Gertrude
Although in the beginning of the play it was evident that Gertrude loved Hamlet, as the play progressed to this scene, it seemed that her love for her son has flailed. She is rather terrified by the actions that Hamlet took in her room and is forced to the point where she needs to scream out for help.
Scene
Ghost says, "Do not forget. This visitation / Is but to whet thy almost blunted purpose. / But look, amazement on thy mother sits. / O, step between her and her fighting soul! / Conceit in weakest bodies strongest works. / Speak to her, Hamlet." In his act of madness, Hamlet seems to have side stepped a little bit from his original plan. His plan would have been to revenge his father's death as soon as possible, but from the hints that the play gives us, numerous months, even years, could have passed from the day of his promise to the ghost. Seeing that Hamlet might have forgotten, Ghost reappears to direct Hamlet in the right direction.
Scene
Hamlet says, "How now, a rat? Dead, for a ducat, dead." In the scene, Hamlet murders Polonius. Despite the fact that Hamlet might be the prince of Denmark, he is bound to be caught in some legal liability. Since such is the case, plan goes according to Cladius' plan. For the 'safety' of Hamlet, he will be sent to England, where Claudius will have Hamlet killed.
4.1 Summary
Gertrude confesses to Claudius what Hamlet had done in her room: murder.
Importance
The scene is of utmost importance o the plot of the play because the act finally gives Claudius a reason to kill Hamlet. Before, Hamlet was protected by his fame among the public but once the public gains knowledge of the deed that he has committed, his popularity is surely to fall and it will make it easier for Claudius to eliminate Hamlet
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern
Before the scene, we never knew how trusted the two liegemen are to Claudius but in the scene, Claudius sends the two to clean up after Hamlet's mess and to keep it a promise. To reveal such an important event to the two liegemen and have them take care of Hamlet shows how close they are to Claudius
4.2 Summary
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern find Hamlet wandering the halls with many others. And their immediate reaction is to ask Hamlet of the whereabouts of Polonius' body but Hamlet does not reveal the location of the body
Question
Why does Hamlet hide the body of Polonius in the first place? What is the significance of such an action?
Importance
People are more convinced that Hamlet has gone mad because of his act. Not only do they find out that he has killed Polonius in his psychotic stage but also he has hidden the body from public so that Polonius can not be given a proper Church burial, disrespecting his death.
4.3 Summary
Because Rosencrantz and Guildenstern could not find out where Hamlet had hidden the body of Polonius, Claudius steps up himself to question Hamlet. During the questioning, Hamlet provides some mysterious answers to many of Claudius' answers. These answers seem like they are not related in anyway to Cladius, however, the truth is Hamlet was criticizing Claudius the whole time.
Importance
It is evident in the scene that Hamlet has finally listened to the ghost and will carry out his promise. All the talk of Cladius being in hell for the adultery and murder that he has committed stands as evidence. Taking a look at the flow of the play, the build up of suspense in the scene provides for the climax of the plot: whether or not Hamlet accomplishes his vengeance
Scene
Claudius says, "Follow him at foot. Tempt him with speed aboard. / Delay it not. I'll have him hence tonight. / Away, for everything is sealed and done / That else leans on th'affair. Pray you make haste." Finally, Claudius makes his first move towards the assassination of Hamlet. It seemed like Hamlet could not make a move against Cladius because Cladius has not done anything terrible to Hamlet directly. But with the evidence in the letters, Hamlet will be able to make his move.
Question
Why the sudden biblical reference to the last supper in Hamlet? I do not see the resemblance between Polonius and Jesus Christ.
4.4
N/A, too short
4.5 Summary
Ophelia returns to the play, only to be crazy. She wanders the castle singing an inappropriate song. The contents of the song refers to Hamlet's promise of marriage to Ophelia, only if she had sex with him. And when she did, Hamlet never returned. It seems like the psychological shock has damaged Ophelia badly, and seeing the situation, Laertes comes to hate Hamlet.
Laertes
Before the scene, Laertes is not involved in the play. The only side of Laertes that the audience gets to see is his docility towards his father. When Polonius said to study in France, he leaves without any complains whereas Hamlet stays in Denmark. But upon his return, when he realized that his father had been killed and his sister is mad, his attitude changes completely and fills with vengeance.
Importance
Last scene, Claudius finally acts upon his thoughts and plans his murder of Hamlet. However, the plan seemed overly simple and did not stand much of a chance of succeeding. Honestly, just sending a couple of guards to murder a prince? That doesn't sound like a plan. In the scene, Claudius wins Laertes over to his side to make him an accomplice
Scene
Ophelia sings, "'Tomorrow is Saint Valentine's day, / All in the morning betime, / And I a maid at your window, / To be your Valentine.' / It spills itself in fearing to be spilt." Ophelia apparently gave her virginity to Hamlet despite all the warnings in the beginning of the play in promise for the marriage. However, when Hamlet disappears from Denmark, leaving her alone, Ophelia goes mad. The scene is particularly important to the plot because she drives the whole revenge. Her insanity brings Laertes to action who later duels Hamlet.
4.6 Summary
Hamlet sends his first letter after leaving for France to Horatio. The letter contains a mysterious note saying that the carrier should be given a privilege to give the letter to Claudius.
4.7 Summary
Claudius receives the letter from Hamlet and it hints Claudius of Hamlet's return. Upon hearing this, Claudius reveals his plans to Laertes, who has been residing at Denmark for quite awhile now. At first, Laertes seems reluctant to accept Claudius' plan and questions why he must carry out such an act. Then, Claudius reveals how his father was killed and Laertes' mind is swayed a little bit. Soon afterward, when Gertrude runs in saying Ophelia has drowned herself because of Hamlet, Laertes falls to Claudius' side.
Importance
Shows how rational a man Laertes is. He takes into consideration his present situation and does not agree to Claudius' offering right away but rather ponders about his options. Even when Laertes is informed that his father was killed by Hamlet, he still seems reluctant, however, he could not just ignore his sister's death. It seems that his sister is the one person he cared the most for. In contrast, Hamlet is a character who acts on his emotions. When he finds out about his father's death from the Ghost, he acts immediately, or rather decides immediately.
Scene
Laertes says, "And so have I a noble father lost, / A sister driven into desp'rate terms, / whose worth, if praises may go back again, / Stood challenger, on mount, of all the age / For her perfections. But my revenge will come." After a careful consideration, Laertes decides upon his course of action. He wants to avenge his father and sister's death and joins Claudius. Surely, the joining of Laertes on Claudius' side is an relief for Claudius because then he has someone to pass on the throne to that is liked by the public and Hamlet's death would not cause as much chaos than it would have before.
Question
Would Laertes have still joined Claudius if only Polonius was killed?
5.1 Summary
Hamlet and Horatio observe the gravediggers digging a grave and discuss about the virtue of the gravediggers and sigh at the lack of respect for life. But soon enough, Hamlet and Horatio realize that the grave is for none other than Ophelia. Finding her face so pale, Hamlet rushes out into an unsuspecting crowd and startles them. Laertes grabs Hamlet and swears that he'll have him punished.
Question
Why did Hamlet keep it a secret that he had arrived back in Denmark until this point? What about the secrecy helped him with his vengeance?
Importance
The talk between the two gravediggers indicated a lot about the plot of rest of the play. The talk had basically foreshadowed everything that was going to occur, concerning the revenge and the last stance. The gravediggers talked about death as if it meant nothing. Not only that but also they presented Hamlet with a skull that used be his friend's. I do not fully understand what the importance of that particular scene is but I am quite sure that it is critical in evaluating the play.
5.2 Summary
Claudius plans to poison Hamlet during his duel against Laertes. Unfortunately, plan does not go as he had planned and Gertrude drinks the poisoned wine and she dies. Soon afterward, Hamlet is gets a cut from poisoned sword of Laertes and strikes back at Laertes with Laertes' sword and kills him. And kills Claudius afterward and the play ends with Fortinbras entering.
Importance
The scene is of utmost importance because many reasons. One of the most obvious reasons is that the play finally ends. Like everyone had wished, the resolution is that everybody who wanted a vengeance got it. And out of nowhere, Fortinbras, who has no relations to the country of Denmark, enters the castle as if he is the heir to the country.
Question
What rights does Fortinbras have to overtake a country that he is not familiar with? What would happen if something similar happened in today's society?
Gertrude
The audience can observe Shakespeare's condescending attitude toward women particularly in this scene. Shakespeare portrays Gertrude. Until her death, she never doubted Claudius for a moment for her ex-husband's death. Despite all of Hamlet's hints at her, she never took notice. Her naivety shows how weak the women were during the time period.
Summary
Last night, while Bernardo and Mercellus were standing watch, ghost of Fortinbras, King of Norway showed himself upon them. However, Horatio does not believe the other two and stands watch the next night, sure enough, the ghost shows itself again but does not talk. The guards determine that it will be of utmost importance to report the incident to Hamlet.
Importance
As the first scene of the whole play, it is important in the aspect that it describes the setting. Without the scene, the readers would be thrown straight into the conflict of the story without the introduction to the ghost. Neither would the readers know where the play is taking place or when. In consequence, everything would be confused for the readers.
Scene
1.1.139 - Marcellus says “It faded on the crowing of the cock. Some say that ever ‘gainst that season comes wherein our Saviour’s birth is celebrated, the bird of dawning sigeth all night long’ and then, they say, no spirit can walk abroad, the nights are wholesome,then no planets strike, no fairy takes, nor witch hath power to charm, so hallowed and so gracious is the time.” From the first few lines, we have determined that the play takes during the Medieval times. The scene is silly and ironic at the same time. It is silly because during the Medieval times, everyone believed in God and that was their life. However, such a quick transition within the soldiers to a superstition when explaining the ghost shows how silly the three are. But the scene is ironic at the same time because the soldiers fail to recognize that it might be because of their social status that the King’s ghost refuses to speak.
Horatio
I feel like Horatio is going to be an important character in the play because he shows courage. While the other two soldiers fail to talk to the ghost during the first night because of lack of courage. However, although the play says that Horatio was trembling, he is the one who actually speaks to the ghost. And from reading the next scene, I could see that Hamlet recognized Horatio first out of the group of them--showing importance.
1.2
Summary
The royal family is introduced. King Claudius, Queen Gertrude and Hamlet--their cousin. Start of the scene, Cornelius, Voltemand, and Laertes are sent of to Norway to take care of certain business that has occurred. Afterward, Gertrude tells Hamlet that everybody in the bloodline has lost their father, foreshadowing what might happen during the play and begs Hamlet to not leave to Norway. Unfortunately, Horatio and his group of soldiers arrive at the scene to inform of Fortinbras and sparks the interests of Hamlet--leading him towards Norway.
Importance
If the last scene was about introducing the setting to the readers, scene two foreshadows the plot for the readers. First, when Gertrude talks about the father's dying, she foreshadows that some conflict will occur to Claudius while Hamlet is off to take care of the ghost of Fortinbras. Not only that but also the readers can infer from the talking between Hamlet and Horatio that they will be important figures within the play in terms of plot. As soon as Horatio enters the scene, despite the fact that he is merely a liegeman, Hamlet recognizes him. We can tell from this that the conflict will occur around the two characters.
Scene
1.2.65 - Hamlet says "A little more than kin, and less than kind." Right after Claudius declares that Hamlet is like a son to him, Hamlet clearly distinguishes himself from the family by saying that he is a little more than a mere citizen but less than a family. Why is that so? When we think of a cousin, we often times say that they are our family and of our blood relations. It seems from the line that Hamlet is reluctant to become anything related to Claudius. Maybe, later in the play a secret will be revealed to us that we can relate back to the quote.
Claudius
Although Claudius is the rightful King, he does not and cannot exert much power over Hamlet. Like before, he tried to claim Hamlet as his son but Hamlet does not listen. And just comparing the way Hamlet speaks to reply to Claudius and Gertrude shows how insignificant Claudius is to Hamlet. While Hamlet addresses Gertrude as "madam" in line 120, we cannot see anywhere within the scene where Hamlet would recognize Claudius as a superior.
1.3
Summary
Ophelia dwells about Hamlet to Laertes. Laertes warns Ophelia that although it may seem that Hamlet loves Ophelia as of now, he believes that his love will not last. Then, Laertes leaves for Denmark. Wondering about the talk between the two, Polonius asks about the conversation and agrees with Laertes that Hamlet's love for Ophelia is only temporary.
Importance
We can see from the conversation between Polonius and Ophelia that although in the previous scenes, Polonius treats Hamlet like his own child, that is not his intentions. Polonius' inner mind is shown through his talk about Hamlet and about his not-lasting-love. And it seems like the conflict between the two leaders will be one of importance to the readers later.
Scene
1.3.33-37 Laertes says "Fear it, Ophelia, fear it, my dear sister, and keep within the rear of your affection, out of the shot and danger of desire. The chariest maid is prodigal enough if she unmask her beauty to the moon." So far in the play, Laertes has not shown any favoritism towards any of the leaders. But from the quote above, the readers can infer that he is on the side of Laertes therefore that of Polonius. He, for some unknown reason, despises Hamlet's love towards Ophelia.
Laertes
Brother of Ophelia, he will have a great influence over what his sister thinks. In the scene, he asserts his opinion of Hamlet's love and says that he only wants her virginity and his love will not last. By saying so, it had hurt Ophelia's feelings as she claims that she has seen the tender feelings in Hamlet's love. Not only that but also he supports the opinions of Polonius rather than Hamlet.
1.4
Summary
Hamlet finally moves to where Horatio had last spotted the ghost and waits with Marcellus and Horatio. He asks of the time and it is twelve a clock. The ghost shows itself and beckons Hamlet to follow. Although there is a little debate within the three, Hamlet's mind seems to have been decided from the start and goes along with the ghost. The ghost still does not speak.
Importance
It is the first time that the ghost actually pointed at somebody within the play, which reconfirms the importance of the ghost in relation to Hamlet. The two guards' personality also shows as Horatio recommends Hamlet to follow the ghost at once whereas Marcellus tries to stop Hamlet from going.
Horatio
Although at first Horatio says that the ghost wants Hamlet to follow it and that he should, after Marcellus' opinion, he quickly changes his mind. From the start of the book, the characteristic of quickly changing his mind has been spotted. At first, he did not want to speak to the ghost and then when he was pushed by his peers, he did. The readers can see that later in the story, Horatio might be pushed to take certain actions that he does not want to because of his personality.
Hamlet
Once again, the readers are awed by the bravery and courage that Hamlet shows towards the readers. Many people might be freaked out by the sight of a ghost, Hamlet does not back away and thinks clearly about his options with the soldiers. We can tell from this that Hamlet does indeed possess the qualities of a King.
1.5
Summary
Within the scene, the ghost finally speaks for the first time. And he only addresses Hamlet about his death. He reveals himself as the father of Hamlet and that he had been brutally murdered. However, the conversation is cut off in the middle as the ghost suddenly disappears, leaving much unanswered questions to Hamlet. Then, Hamlet makes the two soldiers swear on his sword not to ever reveal to anybody what they had seen that night.
Importance
The readers can finally see what the main conflict of the story is: resolving of the 'unnatural murder' of Hamlet's father. The ghost claims in his speech that the one who had killed him took the throne from him. And directly points out Polonius as the one murderer. The readers are left with questions as Hamlet does not yet reveal his course of action to revenge.
Horatio & Marcellus
The two soldiers are always by Hamlet's side, no matter the situation. It seems almost as if they are bodyguards to Hamlet. They show their royalty by swearing upon the sword of Hamlet that they will never tell the story of the night. The readers do not know yet if the promise will be kept.
Hamlet
It is important to evaluate the emotion that Hamlet is feeling right now. After Hamlet hears that his father has been murdered, from what I can feel, he is MAD. He is full of vengeful. And from the point where he makes the two soldiers make the oath, he seems determined to accomplish what his father had asked of him.
2.1
Summary
Polonius does not plan to stand still and get attacked by Hamlet if he does find out. He sends a spy, Reynoldo, along where Hamlet resides to report to him about everything that Hamlet does. Although the soldier questions about the actions a little bit, he soon overcomes these questions and does what Polonius asks of him. Then, Polonius has to deal with Ophelia's problem. She came to him and said that Hamlet had grabbed her by the wrist and made a move that seemed too passionate. Polonius says that he'll report to the King about the problem.
Importance
The fight between the two has finally begun. Hamlet plans at Denmark of how to revenge and recognizing such moves, Polonius sends a spy. The conflict is soon to begin and there are many foreshadows of action beginning.
Scene
2.1.75 Polonius says "Farewell.--How now, Ophelia, what's the matter?" Although Hamlet is the son of Ophelia, it seems as if she does not want him anymore. She starts to participate in a scapegoat with Polonius in a plan to overthrow Hamlet as a whole and give full powers to Polonius for his succession.
Reynoldo
The spy is sent by Polonius to commit acts that are not normally carried out by normal soldiers. And at start, he questions Polonius' orders a little bit but soon believes that what he is committing is the right action. Such occurrence reminds me of Hitler and the Nazis.
Nunnery Scene Comparison
3.2
Summary
Hamlet puts on a play for Gertrude to watch. The play is basically about the murder that she had committed and her early marriage with Claudius. Hamlet puts on the play because he believes that by watching the reaction of Gertrude, he'll be able to figure out if Gertrude feels any regret at all from murdering her husband. He also plays a mind game with Polonius and Claudius by flirting with Ophelia during the play. He asks constantly if he can lie in the laps of Ophelia and does so.
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”?
He says, "now I am alone" because he believes he is alone in this fight against Polonius and Claudius. Beforehand, he believed that if Gertrude's reactions had been different, he could count on her for assistance but it seemed not so. Not only that but also Ophelia showed signs of loyalty to her father, disappointing Hamlet.
Why is the Prince calling himself a “rogue” and “peasant slave”?
Hamlet is calling himself a rogue because he believes that he has not done much for his King during his day and during the time, the rogues did not have much to do. By staying 'idle' he calls himself a rogue. And a peasant slave because he has lived a life commanded by others. He did not know the truth of his father's death until recently and lived under the Murderer--ordered around. Because he lived like a life of a servant, he calls himself a peasant slave.
*Hamlet compares himself to the player. What does this comparison reveal about Hamlet’s self-perception?
An actor comparing the social status to a Prince, is lowly ranked. I believe that actors were among the lowest social statuses during the time of Shakespeare. Since such is the case, when Hamlet compares himself to an Actor, he is lowering himself for the acts that he has committed during his life time and also comparing his lack of knowledge to that of an Actor's.
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?
From the start of the play, "ear" plays an important role because what did Hamlet hear? He heard that his father had died of 'natural causes' if I am correct. However, ironically, he died from being poisoned through an ear. Not only that but also Hamlet hears that his father died in such a way through the ear by a ghost. Obviously, the body part is of an utmost importance to Shakespeare and his theme; Which might be along the lines of do not blindly accept the truth.
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 thinking in terms of theatrical terms because he suspects that Gertrude is in a play of her own. She pretends to be the most innocent one and is actually the cause of Hamlet's distress. Not only that but also Hamlet himself is in a play. In a play to take Claudius down. He acts in front of Ophelia and also acts in front of, basically, everybody to achieve his means.
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?
2.2.540 - Hamlet says, "But in a fiction, in a dream of passion, could force his soul so to his whole conceit that from her working all his visage wanned, tears in his eyes..." The readers can infer from this line that "in a dream of passion" Hamlet would like to revenge right at this moment, however, he does not have the bravery to do so. However, do not be fooled by his speech. He is actually acitng caustiously by looking for external evidence to prove Claudius' guilt.
3.3
Summary
Claudius sends Rosencrantz and Guildenstern after Hamlet to England. As a part of his plan to bring down Hamlet, Claudius plans carefully on how Hamlet should be killed because the people love him, if he just gets murdered, it would cause a lot of trouble within the nation. After sending them away, Claudius kneels to pray at the altar and confesses that his sins have gotten bigger than he had imagined and regrets it. Hearing such a confession, Hamlet ponders rather he should kill Claudius or not but decides against it.
Claudius
Before the scene, the audience was given an impression of Claudius that he is a cold-hearted murderer that kills his own brother for the lust of power. However, here, we can see that from his praying and his confession of his sins that he is not. Although Claudius had once made a mistake, he did not wish it would get bigger and include Hamlet as well. From this, we can infer his good nature.
Polonius
Unfortunate that he is so loyal to Claudius. But at the same time, it seems that Polonius is jealous of the relationship between Claudius and Gertrude. Yes, Hamlet is going to see Gertrude but she is his mother, I do not see what is so wrong about such an action. It can only be concluded from the action that Polonius is somewhat interested in Gertrude.
Scene
In Act 3, Scene 3, Hamlet says, "And so he goes to heaven; / And so am i revenged. That would be scanned. / A villain kills my father ' and for that / I, his sole son, do this same villain send / to heaven." We can tell from the determination that Hamlet shows within his soliloquy that the time for his revenge is approaching. This speech that he gave right here stands as hard proof.
3.4
Summary
Basically, Hamlet and Gertrude are discussing the matters of Gertrude's adultery after Hamlet's father's death in Gertrude's room. When Hamlet gets physical and makes movements that seemed like he would hurt his own mother. So, out of desperation she called out for help and Polonius (who was hiding behind a tapestry in Gertrude's room) called out for help as well. In consequence, Hamlet kills the poor man.
Gertrude
Although in the beginning of the play it was evident that Gertrude loved Hamlet, as the play progressed to this scene, it seemed that her love for her son has flailed. She is rather terrified by the actions that Hamlet took in her room and is forced to the point where she needs to scream out for help.
Scene
Ghost says, "Do not forget. This visitation / Is but to whet thy almost blunted purpose. / But look, amazement on thy mother sits. / O, step between her and her fighting soul! / Conceit in weakest bodies strongest works. / Speak to her, Hamlet." In his act of madness, Hamlet seems to have side stepped a little bit from his original plan. His plan would have been to revenge his father's death as soon as possible, but from the hints that the play gives us, numerous months, even years, could have passed from the day of his promise to the ghost. Seeing that Hamlet might have forgotten, Ghost reappears to direct Hamlet in the right direction.
Scene
Hamlet says, "How now, a rat? Dead, for a ducat, dead." In the scene, Hamlet murders Polonius. Despite the fact that Hamlet might be the prince of Denmark, he is bound to be caught in some legal liability. Since such is the case, plan goes according to Cladius' plan. For the 'safety' of Hamlet, he will be sent to England, where Claudius will have Hamlet killed.
4.1
Summary
Gertrude confesses to Claudius what Hamlet had done in her room: murder.
Importance
The scene is of utmost importance o the plot of the play because the act finally gives Claudius a reason to kill Hamlet. Before, Hamlet was protected by his fame among the public but once the public gains knowledge of the deed that he has committed, his popularity is surely to fall and it will make it easier for Claudius to eliminate Hamlet
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern
Before the scene, we never knew how trusted the two liegemen are to Claudius but in the scene, Claudius sends the two to clean up after Hamlet's mess and to keep it a promise. To reveal such an important event to the two liegemen and have them take care of Hamlet shows how close they are to Claudius
4.2
Summary
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern find Hamlet wandering the halls with many others. And their immediate reaction is to ask Hamlet of the whereabouts of Polonius' body but Hamlet does not reveal the location of the body
Question
Why does Hamlet hide the body of Polonius in the first place? What is the significance of such an action?
Importance
People are more convinced that Hamlet has gone mad because of his act. Not only do they find out that he has killed Polonius in his psychotic stage but also he has hidden the body from public so that Polonius can not be given a proper Church burial, disrespecting his death.
4.3
Summary
Because Rosencrantz and Guildenstern could not find out where Hamlet had hidden the body of Polonius, Claudius steps up himself to question Hamlet. During the questioning, Hamlet provides some mysterious answers to many of Claudius' answers. These answers seem like they are not related in anyway to Cladius, however, the truth is Hamlet was criticizing Claudius the whole time.
Importance
It is evident in the scene that Hamlet has finally listened to the ghost and will carry out his promise. All the talk of Cladius being in hell for the adultery and murder that he has committed stands as evidence. Taking a look at the flow of the play, the build up of suspense in the scene provides for the climax of the plot: whether or not Hamlet accomplishes his vengeance
Scene
Claudius says, "Follow him at foot. Tempt him with speed aboard. / Delay it not. I'll have him hence tonight. / Away, for everything is sealed and done / That else leans on th'affair. Pray you make haste." Finally, Claudius makes his first move towards the assassination of Hamlet. It seemed like Hamlet could not make a move against Cladius because Cladius has not done anything terrible to Hamlet directly. But with the evidence in the letters, Hamlet will be able to make his move.
Question
Why the sudden biblical reference to the last supper in Hamlet? I do not see the resemblance between Polonius and Jesus Christ.
4.4
N/A, too short
4.5
Summary
Ophelia returns to the play, only to be crazy. She wanders the castle singing an inappropriate song. The contents of the song refers to Hamlet's promise of marriage to Ophelia, only if she had sex with him. And when she did, Hamlet never returned. It seems like the psychological shock has damaged Ophelia badly, and seeing the situation, Laertes comes to hate Hamlet.
Laertes
Before the scene, Laertes is not involved in the play. The only side of Laertes that the audience gets to see is his docility towards his father. When Polonius said to study in France, he leaves without any complains whereas Hamlet stays in Denmark. But upon his return, when he realized that his father had been killed and his sister is mad, his attitude changes completely and fills with vengeance.
Importance
Last scene, Claudius finally acts upon his thoughts and plans his murder of Hamlet. However, the plan seemed overly simple and did not stand much of a chance of succeeding. Honestly, just sending a couple of guards to murder a prince? That doesn't sound like a plan. In the scene, Claudius wins Laertes over to his side to make him an accomplice
Scene
Ophelia sings, "'Tomorrow is Saint Valentine's day, / All in the morning betime, / And I a maid at your window, / To be your Valentine.' / It spills itself in fearing to be spilt." Ophelia apparently gave her virginity to Hamlet despite all the warnings in the beginning of the play in promise for the marriage. However, when Hamlet disappears from Denmark, leaving her alone, Ophelia goes mad. The scene is particularly important to the plot because she drives the whole revenge. Her insanity brings Laertes to action who later duels Hamlet.
4.6
Summary
Hamlet sends his first letter after leaving for France to Horatio. The letter contains a mysterious note saying that the carrier should be given a privilege to give the letter to Claudius.
4.7
Summary
Claudius receives the letter from Hamlet and it hints Claudius of Hamlet's return. Upon hearing this, Claudius reveals his plans to Laertes, who has been residing at Denmark for quite awhile now. At first, Laertes seems reluctant to accept Claudius' plan and questions why he must carry out such an act. Then, Claudius reveals how his father was killed and Laertes' mind is swayed a little bit. Soon afterward, when Gertrude runs in saying Ophelia has drowned herself because of Hamlet, Laertes falls to Claudius' side.
Importance
Shows how rational a man Laertes is. He takes into consideration his present situation and does not agree to Claudius' offering right away but rather ponders about his options. Even when Laertes is informed that his father was killed by Hamlet, he still seems reluctant, however, he could not just ignore his sister's death. It seems that his sister is the one person he cared the most for. In contrast, Hamlet is a character who acts on his emotions. When he finds out about his father's death from the Ghost, he acts immediately, or rather decides immediately.
Scene
Laertes says, "And so have I a noble father lost, / A sister driven into desp'rate terms, / whose worth, if praises may go back again, / Stood challenger, on mount, of all the age / For her perfections. But my revenge will come." After a careful consideration, Laertes decides upon his course of action. He wants to avenge his father and sister's death and joins Claudius. Surely, the joining of Laertes on Claudius' side is an relief for Claudius because then he has someone to pass on the throne to that is liked by the public and Hamlet's death would not cause as much chaos than it would have before.
Question
Would Laertes have still joined Claudius if only Polonius was killed?
5.1
Summary
Hamlet and Horatio observe the gravediggers digging a grave and discuss about the virtue of the gravediggers and sigh at the lack of respect for life. But soon enough, Hamlet and Horatio realize that the grave is for none other than Ophelia. Finding her face so pale, Hamlet rushes out into an unsuspecting crowd and startles them. Laertes grabs Hamlet and swears that he'll have him punished.
Question
Why did Hamlet keep it a secret that he had arrived back in Denmark until this point? What about the secrecy helped him with his vengeance?
Importance
The talk between the two gravediggers indicated a lot about the plot of rest of the play. The talk had basically foreshadowed everything that was going to occur, concerning the revenge and the last stance. The gravediggers talked about death as if it meant nothing. Not only that but also they presented Hamlet with a skull that used be his friend's. I do not fully understand what the importance of that particular scene is but I am quite sure that it is critical in evaluating the play.
5.2
Summary
Claudius plans to poison Hamlet during his duel against Laertes. Unfortunately, plan does not go as he had planned and Gertrude drinks the poisoned wine and she dies. Soon afterward, Hamlet is gets a cut from poisoned sword of Laertes and strikes back at Laertes with Laertes' sword and kills him. And kills Claudius afterward and the play ends with Fortinbras entering.
Importance
The scene is of utmost importance because many reasons. One of the most obvious reasons is that the play finally ends. Like everyone had wished, the resolution is that everybody who wanted a vengeance got it. And out of nowhere, Fortinbras, who has no relations to the country of Denmark, enters the castle as if he is the heir to the country.
Question
What rights does Fortinbras have to overtake a country that he is not familiar with? What would happen if something similar happened in today's society?
Gertrude
The audience can observe Shakespeare's condescending attitude toward women particularly in this scene. Shakespeare portrays Gertrude. Until her death, she never doubted Claudius for a moment for her ex-husband's death. Despite all of Hamlet's hints at her, she never took notice. Her naivety shows how weak the women were during the time period.
Media
"to be or not to be"
Gravedigger Scene