Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene? Just as “Macbeth” started off with three witches, “Hamlet” starting off with these guards talking in an eerie night, and the sudden appearance of a ghost sets the mood of this play. Readers get the impression that the first few pages is a good foreshadowing of the dark and dangerous events about to unravel in the future. We also get a good general introduction about some important updates about Hamlet, the king, the setting, the historical period, the country etc.
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. Was it just me, or did these guards seem not too afraid when they encountered the ghost? If it were me, I would have run away. But, these guards started looking very carefully at the ghost, close enough to recognize that it looked similar to King of Denmark. Horatio also has the nerve to ask questions to this ghost. Was meeting ghosts a pretty normal thing in that period?
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them. I very much liked the line by Horatio, “Tush, Tush, t’will not appear” (line 29). Not only were the words “tush” very enjoyable to hear, but also I liked Horatio’s personality. In the midst of everyone afraid of this ghost, Horatio has a skeptic and character. Though he obviously does not have many lines, I like how his character is a memorable one up till now. My first impression of him is that he is a man with a good heart (though we will have to see). I look forward to meeting him as the play progresses.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene. I found it interesting how Horatio was called to the castle by the guards and was referred to by Marcellus as a “scholar,” implying that he was intelligent. Maybe that is why he seems like a skeptic compared to the other guards at the beginning. I like his character because he seems to go against the norm, and is trained to doubt and question.
ACT 1 Scene ii
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene? We have seen the perspectives of the low status (the guards) characters. Now we focus on the characters that the guards had described at the very beginning. Though there are a lot of characters, we get a sense of their personalities. And I realize that in Shakespeare’s plays, first impression matters. This scene is another good scene that sets the dark mood, and we get a glimpse at the relationships between the characters.
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. I could not understand how no one could have a say against Claudius’ action in marrying his brother’s widow, Gertrude, after her husband had passed away a month ago. This proved to me how powerful the status of a king is in this play and reminded me of Greek plays where relationships between parents, siblings, and families were extremely complicated, and this was seen as normal. Also, I was disturbed that Claudius marrying the queen gave him the opportunity to become king. Did he marry her just to get the throne? Is there real love going on here? Who can be trusted?
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them. I especially enjoyed the conversation between the Horatio, Hamlet, and Marcellus and Barnardo. First of all, I have always found it enjoyable to read that two people spoke the same lines at the same time. Second, lines from 220 – 255 introduced Hamlet’s personality. He, also, seems like an educated man who questions because I already read that he was educated at the same school with Horatio. Also, the way he gives very detailed questions, like, “What looked he?” “Armed, say you?” “From top to toe?” which are all on 168, shows that he is a thinker. He is also good hearted because the way he treats his friends is not in a haughty manner. For example, at the end of their talk, he says, “Your love, as mine to you. Farewell” (line 256).
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene. To me, Hamlet does not seem like an old man, probably in his teens. But the way he talks at the end of Act 1 scene ii, “till then sit still my soul; foul deeds will rise though all the earth overwhelm them to men’s eyes” (line 256-260), shows a very dark side to him. He seems to think about things deeply, probably because his father died and his mother has already remarried to his uncle. Any child could not possibly find this an enjoyable event. This must have been a tragic and traumatic event. And we know from Shakespeare’s plays in the past that characters like Hamlet will probably not live happily ever after.
Act 1 Scene iii.
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene introduces new characters like Laertes and Ophelia (Hamlet’s lover). This is an interesting scene that shows the relationship between these characters to Polonius, and the biased perception that Laertes and Polonius have towards Hamlet, who (like them) is a man of high status.
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.
Polonius presumes in a very biased way that Hamlet is probably lying if he gives her his vows. Polonius also goes on to say that he just basically wants to sleep with her, and calls her stupid for believing Hamlet. I have one question for Polonius, “With what evidence can you accuse Hamlet of these things? Are you saying that all men with stature (including yourself) have false vows? Can you sincerely say, with your hand on your heart, that you are entirely faithful to your wife?” It just seems Polonius and Laertes are hypocrites themselves.
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I enjoyed the part when Ophelia defends Hamlet by almost accusing Laertes of being a hypocrite: “Do not, as some ungracious pastors do, show me the steep and thorny way to heaven, Whilst like a puffed and reckless libertine Himself the primrose path of dalliance treads And recks not his own rede” (174). These lines not only showed me that Ophelia is not a coward, but she knows how to talk for herself and her loved one. Also, it almost seems like Laertes also seems to have done some sleeping around himself, looking at the way Ophelia addresses this directly to him. Laertes’ reaction to her words was peculiar to me: “O fear me not.” What does he mean by that?
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Ophelia is a character that I do not understand. At the beginning, I was impressed that she was not being a wimp because she talked back at her brother. But I was disappointed by the end because after her father’s long lecture about not seeing Hamlet anymore, she agreed so pathetically, “I shall obey, my lord.” Is she the same as all other women or not? I guess we will just have to wait and see.
ACT 1 Scene iv.
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene foreshadows the dark events about to unravel in the future. We know this especially by the famous lines by Marcellus, “Something is rotten in the state of Denmark” (184). Without this scene, I think the audience would not have felt as uneasy about this ghost. Hamlet’s friends especially set up scary consequences that must have added to the suspense.
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.
I don’t understand why Hamlet follows the ghost. It is out of curiosity or did he really think it through? His friends seem to me not cowards, but very careful. This ghost beckons in an especially ominous manner. If I were Hamlet, I would not associate with such a creature. Again, are you not afraid of this thing? Also, at the time, how were ghosts regarded by the audience? Wouldn’t this scene have shocked them?
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
Though these lines are not funny, it was somewhat interesting and frightening to read: “What if it tempt you toward the flood… or to the dreadful summit of the cliff that beetles o’er his base into the sea… and draw you into your madness” (183). Horatio gives lines of consequences for meeting this ghost, and I found it peculiar how it did not make Hamlet feel obliged to give it a second thought. I am sure he has gone mad already.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
I am impressed once again by Horatio. His list of possible consequences proved to me how careful and thoughtful he is. Wise and trustworthy Horatio warns his friend once again. Though educated at the same school, Horatio seems to be wiser in the sense that he always thinks about the future. He thinks before he acts.
ACT 1 Scene v.
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This is the scene where we finally understand what bring the ghost here. He certainly has some unfinished business. We also learn some shocking news: Claudius is the man who murdered the ghost. He explains how, and Hamlet gives his promise that he will seek revenge. This is a scene that has a lot of crucial secrets revealed, and many promises to be kept. Therefore, without this scene, Hamlet would not exist.
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.
I do not understand what the ghost means when he tell Hamlet to “List… O list!” Also, I do not know how trustworthy this ghost is. Hamlet does not seem to have any doubt that this ghost is telling the truth. How would this scene have been different if Horatio was the one the ghost talked to?
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I liked how symbolism was used on page 187. When the ghost refers to the “serpent” this symbolizes Satan and how he used his cunning ways to trick Adam and Eve into disobeying God. I also found it interesting how the ghost could describe Hamlet’s uncle in so many ways, “incestuous, that adulterate beast… with witchcraft of his wit, with traitorous gifts… so to seduce…” The word “seduce” once again relates to the serpent, or Satan, that tried to be greater than God by seducing the seemingly perfect woman, Eve -- who in “Hamlet” would be Hamlet’s father’s “most seeming-virtuous queen” (187).
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
At the beginning, I thought Hamlet was a wise man. He was educated at the same school as Horatio, and the way he pondered about things showed he was not ignorant. However, the more he gets associated with this ghost he seems to be following his abrupt emotions rather than thinking logically first. He does not think things through too much. This can be seen on page 186, “ Haste, haste me to know it, that I, with wings as swift as meditation or the thoughts of love, may sweep to my revenge.”
Act 2 Scene i
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is one that has many misunderstandings going on and that is why there is so much humor created. For example, the misunderstanding that Polonius, Claudius, and Ophelia have about Hamlet’s ‘frustration with love.’ This scene not only looks at Ophelia and Polonius' vanity, but also how uncaring and oblivious they are to the real reason of Hamlet's insecure and "mad" actions.
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.
I do not understand why they try so hard to prove that Hamlet is crazy in love? It is peculiar to me how many times the word “mad” is mentioned in this scene. What is the purpose of proving that Hamlet has gone mad for love (though in actuality, he is not). They read Hamlet’s love letters and talk about how they will make a setting where Hamlet will meet Ophelia.
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I found the part when Polonius reads the love letters that Hamlet wrote to Ophelia very humorous because the words written on that letter seemed to coincidently prove Polonius and Ophelia’s theory of what causes Hamlet’s “madness.” These words that could just be words from a love letter, become words of a madman. It is funny how words can be interpreted in different ways, and in this case these words become distorted and “vile”: “ ‘To the celestial, and my soul’s idol, the most beautified Ophelia’ – That’s an ill phrase, a vile phrase, ‘beautified’ is a vile phrase. But you shall here – ‘these; in her excellent white bosom, these” (p 209).
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene. Through this scene, I realized that Ophelia along with her father and Hamlet’s friends are all mad themselves. Especially Ophelia, how could she be so vain to think that a man could act peculiarly solely because of her? This proves to me that she does care for Hamlet that much. If she did, would she not have asked why Hamlet acted the way he did? Instead she goes and tell-tales to her father, and accepts almost willingly that she is the reason for Hamlet’s “madness.” It is hard to say who is really mad in this play.
Act 2 Scene ii
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
I think this is a scene, where the audience really get to question whether Hamlet is mad or not. Is Polonius’ prediction correct? Or is Hamlet just pretending. The more we read on, it seems Hamlet is not so insane; he has enough sanity to know that the King called on his two friends to spy on him. Though his progress of revenge is slow, at the end of the scene (when Hamlet plans that the actors act out the death of the his father’s death) we are sure that Hamlet has not forgotten about his father’s ghost and his unjust death.
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.
Are Rosencrantz and Guildenstern really Hamlet’s friends? Were they genuinely worried about Hamlet’s madness? Or did they come just to please the King and Queen? Also, is Hamlet really mad as Polonius describes? Or is he just pretending? If so, what is his purpose?
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
There were many lines in this scene that had double entendre. For example, when Polonius questions whether Hamlet recognizes Polonius, Hamlet replies that Polonius is a ‘fishmonger’ (which we can basically take as a code for ‘pimp’). Also, I found it amusing when Hamlet talks about Polonius’ daughter having to be kept out of the sun, which he insidiously tries to say that Polonius’ daughter, Ophelia, has a womb that is like a rotting dog in the sun. Even with Hamlet’s pretty apparent comparisons, Polonius is too thick to understand them. These lines made me think that Polonius’ stupidity is going to cost him in the future.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
I was even more impressed by Hamlet because he seems to see through the people around him. When he talks with Polonius, Rosencrantz, and Guildenstern, he knows what their intentions are. Just a few lines into the conversation Hamlet tells Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to truthfully reveal the fact that the King had summoned them to spy on Hamlet. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern have no choice but to disclose the truth because Hamlet so cleverly persuades them by evoking sympathy from the past, their childhood, and long-time friendship. It seems Hamlet is not so ignorant of what goes around him. He knows that people are talking and will talk according to his own actions and words. He is a man not to be toyed with. This is especially apparent at the end of the scene when Hamlet punishes himself for not having avenged his father’s death yet. Calling himself a woman and a coward in his long soliloquy, he even decides to check whether the ghost is candid or not.
2.2.537-594
ACT 3 SCENE 1
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene includes one of the most important speeches of all the plays in the world: “To be or not to be.” This speech is where Hamlet ruminates on suicide, death, and what we would be avoiding by being dead. This scene is also where we are able to see Ophelia and Hamlet together and whether they really love each other or not.
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.
Hamlet says that he does not love Ophelia anymore. Is this true? Or is he pretending?
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I think Hamlet’s soliloquy in this scene is very important because it shows his vulnerability. It seems all the questions we had about Hamlet are solved through this one speech. We know that he is sane, and he knows what is going on. “To be, or not to be: that is the question…” He talks about death and how it would be better to die in some ways. This shows that Hamlet is not a simple-minded guy. The fact that he questions whether the ghost is real or not shows that Hamlet is thinking logically at least. This proves his sanity.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
The more I read Ophelia’s lines, I dislike her character. She seems so vain the way she hopes that Hamlet is mad because of her. She is such an obedient and weak character in front of the King and Queen that it does not seem like she is in love with Hamlet. If she were, would she not have cared for him and been on his side? Rather, she plans to spy on Hamlet and is ever so compliant.
ACT 3 SCENE 2 Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This is the scene where we finally understand that Hamlet is not a mad man, but he had been pretending all along. We also discover through Claudius’ reaction to the play, that he is the killer of King Hamlet, and therefore the ghost was telling the truth.
Though Hamlet believes this, as a reader, I am still not sure if trusting the ghost and seeking revenge is for the better good. Now that Hamlet is entirely sure that Claudius is the murderer, his determination to make Claudius suffer becomes stronger than ever. I am worried that his strong emotions will cause him to be rash.
Q2. 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.
Claudius ran out of the room while the actors acted out the murder scene. But does that really mean he is the murderer of King Hamlet? Is this good enough proof? Hamlet definitely thinks so.
Why would his mother be upset about the play? Did the play poke her conscience? If not, why would she care? Also, Hamlet says that he wishes to take revenge on Gertrude as well. Is she guilty? Would it be just for Hamlet to take his revenge?
Q3. Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I liked the conversation that Hamlet has with Ophelia. He speaks in a very sarcastic way when he says, “What should a man do but be merry? For look you how cheerfully my mother looks, and my father died within’s two hours.” But, Ophelia is too thick to realize his mocking tone, that she says, “Nay, ‘tis two months, my lord.” Then what Hamlet said next was almost refreshing: “So long? Nay then, let the devil wear black, for I’ll have a suit of sables. O heavens, die two months ago, and not forgotten yet! Then there’s hope a great man’s memory may outlive his life half a year” (3.2.120-3). In these lines Hamlet says that it is incredible how a good man can pass away and not be forgotten in the time span of two months. Hamlet says these lines with much irony, yet Ophelia does not notice this. Only the readers can. I guess one of the beauties of Shakespearean plays is dramatic irony such like this one.
Q4. Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
By the end of the scene, I found Hamlet frightening. It is almost like he was becoming mad. When he says he feels cruel enough that he could devour blood, I was a little worried about his mentality. Also, it seems his emotions have taken over him a little too much when he talks about hoping he does not become like Nero (a Roman emperor who murdered his mother). He says, “O heart, lose not thy nature. Let not ever The soul of Nero enter this firm bosom.” Is his bosom really ‘firm’? I think he has become vulnerable in the heart since he met his father’s ghost. Soliloquy after soliloquy, Hamlet seems to become darker and more insecure. This soliloquy (besides the one where he talks about suicide) scares me the most and seems to foreshadow a terrible future. For example, he says, “When churchyards yawn, and hell itself breathes out contagion to this world. Now could I drink hot blood, and do such bitter business as the day Would quake to look on” (3.2.371-5) He feels he could drink blood because he feels so brutish. I think Hamlet is going nearly mad.
3.1.369-382
3.2 Questions
1. What advice does Hamlet have for the actors? Why?
Hamlet wants the actors to act naturally without making too many gestures or overdoing it as amateurish actors do. They should use subtle and discrete ways of acting to raise the eeriness and suspense of the scenes. They also should not try to get the audience laughing too easily because this would prevent the play from being serious.
2. Why does Hamlet say he especially likes Horatio (Does Hamlet see Horatio as similar to him or different from him?
He says that Horatio is most trustworthy among the men that he has met. He says that one of Horatio's gift is his ability to make good judgments and not be driven by emotions. Also, Horatio is a guy who Fortune cannot toy with. Horatio and fortune have an equal trade-off.
4. Based on 3.2.119, how much time elapsed between Act 1 and Act 2 (since the action has been continuous since the beginning of Act 2)?
About two months have passed. We know this because Hamlet says in a sarcastic tone that only two days have passed since his father's death, but then Ophelia corrects him by saying it is actually two months.
6. What is Claudius' mood as he stops the play at 3.2.247? How does Hamlet respond? If Hamlet has learned that Claudius is indeed guilty (if that's why he stopped the play and not for some other reason), Claudius has also learned something from the presentation of the play. What has Claudius learned?
Claudius becomes panicky and shocked. He sweats and shows nervousness. Hamlet finds that this is evidence that Claudius murdered his father. He becomes overjoyed and very confident that he can now take revenge on Claudius. He is maybe too sure that Claudius is the murderer. Through the play, Claudius has learned that Hamlet knows about the dark secrets of his father's death. Claudius might, therefore, try to attack Hamlet before Hamlet strikes.
7. What message do Rosencrantz and Guildenstern have for Hamlet? Despite the chaos at the end of the play, is this message unexpected after hearing Polonius' suggestion at the end of the Nunnery scene (3.1)? What lesson does Hamlet teach with a recorder?
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern tell Hamlet that his mother, Gertrude, is unhappy about the play and that she calls for him. This is not a surprise as Polonius did suggest that it may not be love that is causing Hamlet's "lunacy". Hamlet asks Guildenstern to play the recorder, and he refuses. Hamlet says that they should be able to play the recorder just as they toy with and wish to manipulate Hamlet so easily.
ACT 3 SCENE 3 -- Answer 3
1. What has Claudius decided to do with Hamlet? Who will go with him? What "theoretical" message about kingship does Rosencrantz tell to Claudius?
Claudius decides to send Hamlet off with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to England so that Hamlet does not cause any more trouble. Rosencrantz is willing to go to England with Hamlet because he believes that the needs of the king is more significant and vital than the needs of those lesser in rank (like Hamlet's). Rosencrantz is almost like the king's 'pet'.
2. Where is Polonius going?
Polonius decides to eavesdrop on Gertrude and Hamlet's conversation.
3. What does Claudius admit in his attempt to pray? Has the play actually had an effect on him? Why can't he ask for forgiveness?
In his prayer, Claudius admits that he committed the murder. It seems that he has become quite religious after watching the play. He talks about how the rain in heaven could not possibly wash away his sins. At this point, he seems quite repentant. However, he believes he cannot ask God for forgiveness because he still has all the things that he gained through his sins (such as the thrown and the queen).
ACT IV CHARACTER QUESTIONS: CLAUDIUS
Claudius seems to find Hamlet as the source of wrong. Looking at how Claudius wants to get rid of Hamlet and calls Hamlet a disease, Claudius seems quite threatened by Hamlet.
It seems Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are like the king’s “pets.” When Claudius asks them go get Hamlet and retrieve Polonius’ body, they obey ever-so willingly.
Hamlet also talks about this in act 4 scene 2, when he compares Claudius’ servants to a sponge. Though Rosencrantz and Guildenstern obey Claudius very well now, Hamlet presumes that Claudius is just using them. Hamlet made a very good point.
Claudius seems like he would never lose his cool, but in Act 4, scene 3, Claudius gets impatient and asks Hamlet to tell him where Polonius’ corpse is. It also seems like he’s sending Hamlet away to England because he knows that Hamlet will never return. This was proven true when at the end of this scene, Claudius reveals that he has arranged Hamlet to be killed when he arrives in England.
4.5.71-92
Above, we can also see an emotional and sentimental side to him in Act 4 scene 5 when he grieves over Polonius’ death, Ophelia’s madness, and Hamlet being sent off to England. Though as a member of the audience, I do not know whether to trust Claudius, this scene shows that he is not entirely cold-blooded. But, he shows his self-centeredness as we go further into his monologue.
Claudius seems very cunning and sly in a very subtle way (though he tries to cover it up.) When Laertes is enraged about his father’s death, Claudius tells him that it is not his fault and tries to stir his anger even more. He praises Laertes in every way and tells him that Hamlet was angry that a Norman praised Laertes for his fencing skills.
Claudius also makes a master plan: he will poison Hamlet’s cup so that when Hamlet is thirsty during his dual, he will get poisoned. This is a similar way in which Claudius murdered King Hamlet: poison. This just shows how unrepentant he is. He asks for forgiveness and thinks that that will solve everything, but then he goes on to committing a similar crime. Claudius appears as a true liar and hypocrite. I think Act 4 proves that Claudius is not as innocent or sorry as he looks.
But, it is hard to deny his shrewdness. He is an intelligent man who saves his country, and his Machiavellian character is what makes him succeed in everything he puts his mind into. So, he is a successful king, who believes that the most effective use of power will require some unethical deeds. But, what sets him apart from Hamlet (who could also be regarded as a Machiavellian character because nothing stops him from taking revenge) is that he is the murderer of an innocent man: Hamlet's father. Hamlet, on the other hand, kills the villains. So, he is a hero.
Act 4 scene 1
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is where Claudius, after much anxiety, decides to send Hamlet away as he seems to cause a lot of trouble. We also get to see that Gertrude keeps her promise to Hamlet; she explains to Claudius how Hamlet has absolutely gone mad.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
How does Gertrude so easily submit to Claudius when he says Hamlet should be shipped away? Right after Claudius exclaims, “The sun no sooner shall the mountains touch But, we will ship him hence…” Gertrude does not say anything in this scene. Does Gertrude truly believe that sending Hamlet away is the best way to solve the problem?
Q3. Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I really felt Claudius’ evilness when he went on and on about how it was the fault of the parents (he and Gertrude) that drove Hamlet mad. This is when he says on page 289, “It will be laid to us, whose providence should have kept short, restraint, and out of haunt this mad young man. But so much was our love, we would not understand what was most fit…” The more I try to sympathize with Claudius and find a good side to him, his lines such as these just prove how malicious and sly he is. He tries to flatter Gertrude with his words, but they just add to the frustration of the audience. There are two kinds of evil, one that is
Q4 combined: Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Claudius orders Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to “bring the body [Polonius] into the chapel.” My question is why? Why bring him and try to find him so desperately? Claudius shows anxiety over Polonius’ death. Is this trying to show a different, more humane side to Claudius, or is he too self-centered to think of others besides his own. I had predicted that he would be a more colder person, that the death of Polonius would mean nothing to him, but looking at his reactions to Polonius’ death, I am not so sure.
Act 4 scene 2
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is where Hamlet explains to Guildenstern and Rosencrantz about Claudius and his intentions. This scene contrasts the reactions between Hamlet vs. Guildenstern and Rosencrantz, to the king. While Guildenstern and Rosencrantz are so submissive and act like “a sponge” (as Hamlet describes them), Hamlet has resentment and questions Claudius’ every move.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
I wish I could understand Hamlet’s lines when he says on page 292, “The body is with the King, but the King is not with the body. The King is a thing --… of nothing.”
What message is he trying to convey through this statement?
Q3. Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I enjoyed reading the lines by Hamlet when he describes Rosencrantz and Guildenstern as “sponges.” Hamlet goes on to say that Claudius “keeps them, like an ape an apple in the corner of his jaw, first mouthed, to be last swallowed. When he needs what you have gleaned, it is but squeezing you and, sponge, you shall be dry again (4.2.16-19).” He calls Claudius “an ape” not a human, to show his savagery, and gives a vivid image of it scrumptiously biting off what it desperately craves for. But later on, when Claudius does not need anything to chew off from them, he will treat Rosencrantz and Guildenstern like trash. I loved the analogy and reference of Claudius as an ape.
Q4 combined: Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
I am quite disappointed in Rosencrantz and Guildenstern for their ignorance and naivety. I had hoped they would be wiser by the end of the play, but it seems they are still the king’s pets. Looking at how they reacted to Hamlet’s words, they reminded me of Polonius because they seemed to just not get it. Rosencrantz reply is, “I understand you not, my lord.” Hamlet, right after, says “I am glad of it. A knavish speech sleeps in a foolish ear,” showing us that yes, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are exactly what the audience thinks of them: they are “foolish,” and his sarcastic words were wasted upon these stupid characters.
Act 4 scene 3 Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is very important as it shows Claudius’ plan to get Hamlet murdered by the English. One of the significant soliloquies in the play, Claudius says “Do it, England,” meaning the English must come to good terms with Denmark by doing Claudius a favor. This is also the scene where Claudius and Hamlet talk about Polonius’ death. This adds to the motivation for Claudius to get Hamlet killed. Without this scene, we would not understand why Claudius sends Hamlet off to England.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
When Claudius sends Hamlet away, I found it peculiar why Hamlet did not refuse or try to take even a moment to think about Claudius’ intentions. Claudius’ sudden actions should have surprised Hamlet and made him want to stay, but he just says, “Good.”
Q3. Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I loved the lines by Hamlet when he replies to Claudius about where Polonius is. He replies on page 293, “At supper… Not where he eats, but where he is eaten. A certain convocation of politic worms are e’en at him.” This shows his wit and his ability to toy with Claudius’ mind. Claudius at first seems very calm as he asks Hamlet in a composed manner, “Now, Hamlet, where’s Polonius?” But after Hamlet’s lines about Polonius being eaten by worms under the soil, Claudius cries, “Alas, alas” and panics. This shows that Hamlet has the upper hand and Claudius may be at a stage where he is getting anxious and vulnerable.
Q4. Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
When asked about Polonius the second time, Hamlet replies that he is ‘in heaven,’ on page 294. This shows that Hamlet does feel bad for having murdered Polonius. Yes, he did eavesdrop on Gertrude and Hamlet’s conversation, but he is good enough to go to heaven, unlike Claudius. Hamlet’s anger and revenge was against Claudius, not Polonius, yet because he was unfortunately at the wrong time and wrong place, he got killed without a squeak.
Act 4 scene 4 Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene shows what of the few lines that Fortinbras has in the play. He comes with his army and shows that he will attack Denmark. The few last scenes have all centered around Hamlet and his revenge, that the readers are reminded of a political issue between the two countries, Denmark and Norway. This is not a good sign.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
I wonder why the scene is short. Why could not Fortinbras have more lines?
Q3, Q4 combined: Quotes you liked? Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Fortinbras, like Horatio, does not have many lines, but he is a very significant character in the play. For one thing, he has a scene all for himself! And, when he says “Go safely on” to the captain of the army, I felt he is a genuine guy who is very similar to Hamlet and Laertes; he just wants revenge, for his father was also killed. I feel that though they have a similar pain, their reaction to the incident is different. While Laertes and Fortinbras instantly do something to gain revenge, Hamlet has planned for months and months, and has finally taken action. Also, it saddens me that these three are enemies in one way or another when actually they could be very good friends. The boundaries of politics and family are what sets them apart.
I came back to Act 4 scene 4 after reading the whole play, and recognized that the soliloquy by Hamlet in this scene is really his last where he shows him pondering. Up until now, Hamlet considers much about the consequences of his actions and maybe that is why it takes so long for him to murder Claudius. In this soliloquy, however, Hamlet realizes that he can no longer weigh the pros and cons; he must take swift and bold actions. We see his change of attitude when he says that from now on, "whether it be Bestial oblivion or some craven scruple Of thinking too precisely on th'event — a thought which, quartered, hath but one part wisdom and three parts coward — I [Hamlet] do not know Why yet I [Hamlet] live to say 'This thing's to do,' Sith I have cause, and will, and strength, and means to do't." I like the new Hamlet.
Act 4 scene 5
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This is a significant part of the play where we see Ophelia driven to madness, and the reactions of the other characters to her sudden deterioration in mental health. Near the end of the scene, we also see that Claudius is once again in his sly mode as he tries to calm Laertes down and act like his ‘friend’ just so that he could, to his advantage, make Laertes feel enraged towards Hamlet.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
Why is it that Horatio is always the observer of every incident? He observed when Hamlet meets his ghost, when Claudius reacts to the play that Hamlet planned out, and when poor Ophelia goes mad. Why did Shakespeare create this character? What was his purpose?
Q3. Quotations you enjoyed? Why?
I enjoyed reading the part where Ophelia gives the flowers to each of the character and explains to them what the flowers mean. I felt the motif and symbol of the flower was very subtly significant in the play. For instance, when Ophelia say, “I would give you some violets, but they withered all when my father died.” Violets refer to faithfulness. The fact that they withered shows that her faith withered along with Polonius’ death. These deep meanings in the flowers help us interpret her words. Though she may be mad, she conveys her feelings very implicitly through flowers. Flowers are definitely the focus of this scene.
Q4 combined: Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
I feel Claudius’ reaction to the madness of Ophelia is genuine. He says “O, this is the poison of deep grief; it springs all from her father’s death… O Gertrude, Gertrude, when sorrows come, they come not single spies, but in battalions…poor Ophelia divided from herself and her fair judgment…O my dear Gertrude, this, like to a murdering-piece, in many places gives me superfluous death.” He has no reason to flatter Gertrude about Ophelia, for she is in no relation to Ophelia, and neither is Claudius himself. Yet, he shows anxiety for Ophelia and does not take this matter lightly. I feel his reaction to Ophelia is one of the moments where the audience is able to feel like he does have a side to him that is not as cold or negligent.
Act 4 scene 6 Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This is one of the few scenes with Horatio. As we see in this scene, it is very similar to the recent scene with Fortinbras (Act 4 Scene 4) in that it is short, yet important as it gives us a bigger picture of what is going on. The main focus of the play is of the palace where the drama between Hamlet and Claudius unraveled. But, here in Act 4 scene 6, a sailor, who has been out at sea, and Horatio (a 'minor' character) is focused upon. The fact that a whole scene is dedicated to Horatio must mean he is a significant character.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
Why is it Horatio who reads this letter written by Hamlet? Why did not Shakespeare make Hamlet read his own letter? What is the effect and purpose of this?
Q3: Quote lines you enjoyed? Why?
I was too curious about this scene that I researched about it and found that the pirate attack is an example of "deus ex machine." This is used to further the plot and bring Hamlet back to Denmark, but does not help or add to the 'thematic meaning.'
I found this literary term very interesting as I have never seen this used in literature before.
Q4: Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Since the beginning, Horatio has been a character that was not always so clear to me. He has a few lines and he does not seem to talk much, but just always observes. Even to Hamlet’s letter in Act 4 Scene 6, he does not show a reaction, or in other words, Shakespeare does not insert this in the scene. Horatio is almost simply the narrator in the scene. But, he is a significant character because he is the foil character of Hamlet. While Hamlet seems more rash and seems to talk more than do, Horatio seems more calm and collected. It might be because it is not HIS father who was murdered, but we still are able to differentiate between the two. I just wish I could see more of Horatio in the future.
Act 4 Scene 7 Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This is an extremely significant scene as Laertes and Claudius plan how to murder Hamlet. They have a plan A, B, and C, which shows how determined they are to get rid of him. At the very end of the scene, Gertrude speaks of a very unfortunate incident: Ophelia is dead after she drowns. This tragic event makes Laertes even more enraged and motivated to kill Hamlet. All the while, everything is turning out to Claudius’ advantage.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
Why does Laertes not question Claudius? Is it because his emotions are overflowing and making him so vulnerable that he cannot think rationally? He trusts Claudius like he would trust his father. If he would just question some of the things that Claudius says, like about Hamlet doubting Laertes’ sword fighting skills, Laertes and Hamlet would not have to end up as such fatal enemies. Their real enemy is Claudius! Why do they not realize that!
Q3, Q4 combined: Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene. Quotes you enjoyed? Why?
Claudius reminds me of the serpent in the Biblical story of Adam and Eve. He uses certain words to make Laertes more fired up, just for his own advantage. For instance, on page 316, he says “This report of his did Hamlet so envenom with his envy that he could nothing do but wish and beg your sudden coming o’er to play with him.” This quote is just one of many where Claudius tries to make Hamlet look like a malicious man with the use of very deceitful and stressed information and words. The words like “envenom,” “envy,” and “sudden” are added to make Hamlet look malevolent. And all the while, we know that Laertes is falling even deeper into Claudius’ trap. Claudius goes on to say, “Was your father dear to you? Or are you like the painting of a sorrow, a face without a heart?” Once again, he pokes at Laertes’ manliness and loyalty to his father as a son, just for his advantage. Claudius is such a sly character, it makes the audience go mad. He is just like the serpent that tried to make Eve fall into his trap by poking some of the more vulnerable subjects with lies and subtle persuasion. To his question, “What would you undertake to show yourself your father’s son in deed more than in words?” Laertes, unsurprisingly, replies (as if he is some kind of hero) “To cut his throat I’th’ church.” Then Claudius agrees and rewards him with his mere words, “No place indeed should murder sanctuarize; Revenge should have no bounds.” But, it is ironic though that Claudius’ very own words backfires as Hamlet takes his revenge against Claudius himself.
Another part I found interesting is where Gertrude describes Ophelia’s death. The fact that she fell into the stream with her “crow-flowers, nettles, daisies, and long purples,” made me think that this was not a mere accident, but a suicide. The flowers in the previous scene showed us that they represent the different characters of this play. Maybe (and this is just my opinion), she drowned into the depths of the waters because she could not take it anymore. Her drowning with the flowers foreshadows the future. The characters will follow her death by the end of the play. And as we know, by the end Hamlet, Gertrude, Laertes, and Claudius, who represented each of Ophelia’s different flowers, die in one way or another.
4.7.141-158
ACT 5 Scene 1
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is important in that it builds up to the climax (where Claudius is killed, Gertrude and Laertes dies). There are dialogues full of hatred and hostility. This is a scene where we can see the perspective of lower class men of Ophelia’s suicide. We also learn much about the setting and what the common perception of suicide is (and how it is viewed to religious Christians of that time.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
I wonder why Shakespeare put a lot of dialogues between the first clown and second clown talking about how Ophelia’s suicide went against Christianity and how she should be buried somewhere unholy.
Q3. Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
“The cat will mew, and dog will have his day.” I liked this line because it seemed to foreshadow Claudius’ future. This line shows that no matter how long it may take, the victims will have their revenge. I also liked the line, “Fall ten times treble on that cursed head Whose wicked deed thy most ingenious sense deprived thee of.” Laertes says this to Hamlet and I felt his anger and rage. I also felt sad that Laertes must have grudges towards Hamlet, when actually they should be best friends. The whole scene, I hoped that Laertes could open his eyes and not be blinded by Claudius’ false accusations. This scene is memorable to be because there is a lot of powerful language going on in this scene, mostly about revenge and hatred.
Q4. Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Claudius is the slyest character yet. At the end of the scene especially, he talks aside to Laertes, “Strengthen your patience in our last night’s speech. We’ll put the matter to the present push.” It seems Claudius is trying to control Laertes’ mind, and Laertes has not the slightest doubt that Claudius might be lying. I want to ask Laertes, ‘what makes Claudius so trustworthy to you? Why do you not talk with Hamlet in a reasonable manner, rather than rashly plot a scheme?” I think Claudius is using Laertes’ insecure and vulnerable state to kill Hamlet. This just shows how Claudius is very cunning in a subtle way. He might not be the one who is under the spotlight, but he certainly controls everything backstage.
Act 5 Scene 2
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This is the climax of the play, where Gertrude drinks the poison that Claudius had planned for Hamlet during his duel with Laertes. This is also where Hamlet’s revenge is complete, as Claudius is killed after he is forced to drink the poison. This is a significant scene where the words of Hamlet come to life: "The cat will mew and the dog will have his day" (5.1.282). Claudius poisoned Hamlet's father, and Claudius gets poisoned to death (not only by the sword, but is forced to gulp poison down his throat). This motif shows that Claudius' very own words, "Revenge has no boundaries" backfires. This is the scene where motifs (like the poison) help make the revenge so much sweeter, and the last pieces of the puzzle fall together. Without this scene, there would be no Hamlet. It is to this climax that the whole play was building up for. Also, Laertes' and Hamlet's unjust deaths are what makes this play a tragedy. If it were just Claudius, Polonius, and Gertrude who are killed, this play would be considered to have a happy ending. But as we know, Shakespeare never ends in a Disney-like manner. Maybe too much vengeance is not healthy.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
I wonder why Claudius had not told Gertrude about the plan of poisoning Hamlet. If she had known or if Claudius had stopped her right before, she would not have died, but Claudius does not try much to stop Gertrude from drinking the poison. He says, “Gertrude, do not drink.” That’s all he says! There is no action. I wonder if he ever really loved Gertrude. He seems too caught up with his own life and ambitions that his love is his second priority.
Q3. Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I did not ‘enjoy’ it, but I did think the lines on page 338 by Hamlet summarized all of Claudius’ sins: “He that hath killed my king and whored my mother, popped in between th’election and my hopes, Thrown out his angle for my proper life…” Looking at this it seems I would have had vengeance in me if I were Hamlet. I understand his rage and I find it normal. Claudius really does deserve to die. He killed his father, “whored" his mother, and ruined Hamlet’s life. After these lines, Hamlet goes on to say that these are enough evidence to kill Claudius and end his sins there. I agree with him. I guess that is why I felt so refreshed when he forced the poison into Claudius’ throat. Though Claudius had a few good traits as a king, his Machiavellian rulership left a scar on many people’s hearts. Though this play is a tragedy because Hamlet and Laertes dies at the end, I find it as a triumph that Claudius, Polonius, and Gertrude are rightfully killed.
Another quotation I enjoyed reading was one with Hamlet, when he talks about Laertes: "But I am sorry, good Horatio, That to Laertes I forgot myself, For by the image of my cause, I see The portraiture of his." Hamlet says that he sees himself in Laertes. Hamlet has been punishing himself eversince he met the ghost and was unable to take revenge for his father, so, by reaching out to Laertes and obtaining the forgiveness of Laertes, it is almost as if Hamlet is forgiving himself. Maybe, Hamlet was ready to die in the first place when he gave his consent to have a duel with Laertes. He was ready to die in order to gain forgiveness. All along I thought Hamlet consented to the duel out of stupidity, but reading his lines about him seeing "the portraiture of his [Laertes]" in himself, I am beginning to feel that Hamlet knew his fate all along. He got what he wished for in the end: the death of his father's murderer, Claudius, the forgiveness of Laertes, and a peace of mind.
Q4:Describeyour reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene. I find it peculiar why we did not talk more about Osric. He is one of the characters, besides Horatio and Fortinbras, who survived till the end of the play. I remember watching the Gibson version of Hamlet, and I asked myself, who is that maliciously sly looking man asking Hamlet whether he should like to participate in a duel against Laertes? Yes, it was Osric. And I think he deserved that portrayal. Reading over his lines in the short dialogue he has with Hamlet, I can sense that he is an affected messenger. It seems he is just a more evil version of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. He acts like he is a friendly servant, but he is actually one of the king's pet -- just another face of Claudius. We can see this in Osric's lines, he suddenly comes up to Hamlet and out of nowhere starts praising Laertes endlessly. I have never heard so much praise spoken from one man. "But in the verity of extolment, I take him to be a soul of great article, and his infusion of such dearth and rareness as, to make true diction of him, his semblable is his mirror. And who else would trace him? His umbrage, nothing more," "You are not ignorant of what excellence Laertes is --," " But in the imputation laid on him by them, in his meed he’s unfellowed."All these lines are of Osric, and we can see that his intention really is to make Hamlet jealous (at least it is the intention of Claudius). Though Osric appears obedient and courteous as he says, "Yes, my lord," to Hamlet almost half of the time, I believe Osric is another character that Hamlet should have killed at the end. I predict that as an affected courtier and umpire of the duel between Laertes and Hamlet, he knew much more than we think.
We also get a hint from Hamlet at the beginning of the dialogue, that Osric has an eerie air to him. Hamlet, first of all, calls Osrics an insect (not to his face of course, but to the side to Horatio), "I humbly thank you, sir. (aside to HORATIO) Dost know this water-fly?" He goes on to say to Horatio, "Thy state is the more gracious, for ’tis a vice to know him. He hath much land, and fertile. Let a beast be lord of beasts and his crib shall stand at the king’s mess. 'Tis a chough, but, as I say, spacious in the possession of dirt." From these lines, the readers know already that Osric is not a man to be trusted. He's a "beast" or animal that is filthy rich. That is why he is close to the king. I predict that probably this is why he keeps his mouth zipped about the whole scheme against Hamlet. So, looking at Osric's lines closely, it is evident that Osric is another character that the audience should pay attention to. Just because he is a minor role, does not mean he did not play a significant part in the play.
Osric's dialogue with Hamlet captured my attention again, that I had to make a page document solely dedicated to him :)
03/31
Act 1 Scene i
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
Just as “Macbeth” started off with three witches, “Hamlet” starting off with these guards talking in an eerie night, and the sudden appearance of a ghost sets the mood of this play. Readers get the impression that the first few pages is a good foreshadowing of the dark and dangerous events about to unravel in the future. We also get a good general introduction about some important updates about Hamlet, the king, the setting, the historical period, the country etc.
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.
Was it just me, or did these guards seem not too afraid when they encountered the ghost? If it were me, I would have run away. But, these guards started looking very carefully at the ghost, close enough to recognize that it looked similar to King of Denmark. Horatio also has the nerve to ask questions to this ghost. Was meeting ghosts a pretty normal thing in that period?
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I very much liked the line by Horatio, “Tush, Tush, t’will not appear” (line 29). Not only were the words “tush” very enjoyable to hear, but also I liked Horatio’s personality. In the midst of everyone afraid of this ghost, Horatio has a skeptic and character. Though he obviously does not have many lines, I like how his character is a memorable one up till now. My first impression of him is that he is a man with a good heart (though we will have to see). I look forward to meeting him as the play progresses.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
I found it interesting how Horatio was called to the castle by the guards and was referred to by Marcellus as a “scholar,” implying that he was intelligent. Maybe that is why he seems like a skeptic compared to the other guards at the beginning. I like his character because he seems to go against the norm, and is trained to doubt and question.
ACT 1 Scene ii
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
We have seen the perspectives of the low status (the guards) characters. Now we focus on the characters that the guards had described at the very beginning. Though there are a lot of characters, we get a sense of their personalities. And I realize that in Shakespeare’s plays, first impression matters. This scene is another good scene that sets the dark mood, and we get a glimpse at the relationships between the characters.
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.
I could not understand how no one could have a say against Claudius’ action in marrying his brother’s widow, Gertrude, after her husband had passed away a month ago. This proved to me how powerful the status of a king is in this play and reminded me of Greek plays where relationships between parents, siblings, and families were extremely complicated, and this was seen as normal. Also, I was disturbed that Claudius marrying the queen gave him the opportunity to become king. Did he marry her just to get the throne? Is there real love going on here? Who can be trusted?
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I especially enjoyed the conversation between the Horatio, Hamlet, and Marcellus and Barnardo. First of all, I have always found it enjoyable to read that two people spoke the same lines at the same time. Second, lines from 220 – 255 introduced Hamlet’s personality. He, also, seems like an educated man who questions because I already read that he was educated at the same school with Horatio. Also, the way he gives very detailed questions, like, “What looked he?” “Armed, say you?” “From top to toe?” which are all on 168, shows that he is a thinker. He is also good hearted because the way he treats his friends is not in a haughty manner. For example, at the end of their talk, he says, “Your love, as mine to you. Farewell” (line 256).
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
To me, Hamlet does not seem like an old man, probably in his teens. But the way he talks at the end of Act 1 scene ii, “till then sit still my soul; foul deeds will rise though all the earth overwhelm them to men’s eyes” (line 256-260), shows a very dark side to him. He seems to think about things deeply, probably because his father died and his mother has already remarried to his uncle. Any child could not possibly find this an enjoyable event. This must have been a tragic and traumatic event. And we know from Shakespeare’s plays in the past that characters like Hamlet will probably not live happily ever after.
Act 1 Scene iii.
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene introduces new characters like Laertes and Ophelia (Hamlet’s lover). This is an interesting scene that shows the relationship between these characters to Polonius, and the biased perception that Laertes and Polonius have towards Hamlet, who (like them) is a man of high status.
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.
Polonius presumes in a very biased way that Hamlet is probably lying if he gives her his vows. Polonius also goes on to say that he just basically wants to sleep with her, and calls her stupid for believing Hamlet. I have one question for Polonius, “With what evidence can you accuse Hamlet of these things? Are you saying that all men with stature (including yourself) have false vows? Can you sincerely say, with your hand on your heart, that you are entirely faithful to your wife?” It just seems Polonius and Laertes are hypocrites themselves.
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I enjoyed the part when Ophelia defends Hamlet by almost accusing Laertes of being a hypocrite: “Do not, as some ungracious pastors do, show me the steep and thorny way to heaven, Whilst like a puffed and reckless libertine Himself the primrose path of dalliance treads And recks not his own rede” (174). These lines not only showed me that Ophelia is not a coward, but she knows how to talk for herself and her loved one. Also, it almost seems like Laertes also seems to have done some sleeping around himself, looking at the way Ophelia addresses this directly to him. Laertes’ reaction to her words was peculiar to me: “O fear me not.” What does he mean by that?
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Ophelia is a character that I do not understand. At the beginning, I was impressed that she was not being a wimp because she talked back at her brother. But I was disappointed by the end because after her father’s long lecture about not seeing Hamlet anymore, she agreed so pathetically, “I shall obey, my lord.” Is she the same as all other women or not? I guess we will just have to wait and see.
ACT 1 Scene iv.
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene foreshadows the dark events about to unravel in the future. We know this especially by the famous lines by Marcellus, “Something is rotten in the state of Denmark” (184). Without this scene, I think the audience would not have felt as uneasy about this ghost. Hamlet’s friends especially set up scary consequences that must have added to the suspense.
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.
I don’t understand why Hamlet follows the ghost. It is out of curiosity or did he really think it through? His friends seem to me not cowards, but very careful. This ghost beckons in an especially ominous manner. If I were Hamlet, I would not associate with such a creature. Again, are you not afraid of this thing? Also, at the time, how were ghosts regarded by the audience? Wouldn’t this scene have shocked them?
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
Though these lines are not funny, it was somewhat interesting and frightening to read: “What if it tempt you toward the flood… or to the dreadful summit of the cliff that beetles o’er his base into the sea… and draw you into your madness” (183). Horatio gives lines of consequences for meeting this ghost, and I found it peculiar how it did not make Hamlet feel obliged to give it a second thought. I am sure he has gone mad already.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
I am impressed once again by Horatio. His list of possible consequences proved to me how careful and thoughtful he is. Wise and trustworthy Horatio warns his friend once again. Though educated at the same school, Horatio seems to be wiser in the sense that he always thinks about the future. He thinks before he acts.
ACT 1 Scene v.
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This is the scene where we finally understand what bring the ghost here. He certainly has some unfinished business. We also learn some shocking news: Claudius is the man who murdered the ghost. He explains how, and Hamlet gives his promise that he will seek revenge. This is a scene that has a lot of crucial secrets revealed, and many promises to be kept. Therefore, without this scene, Hamlet would not exist.
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.
I do not understand what the ghost means when he tell Hamlet to “List… O list!” Also, I do not know how trustworthy this ghost is. Hamlet does not seem to have any doubt that this ghost is telling the truth. How would this scene have been different if Horatio was the one the ghost talked to?
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I liked how symbolism was used on page 187. When the ghost refers to the “serpent” this symbolizes Satan and how he used his cunning ways to trick Adam and Eve into disobeying God. I also found it interesting how the ghost could describe Hamlet’s uncle in so many ways, “incestuous, that adulterate beast… with witchcraft of his wit, with traitorous gifts… so to seduce…” The word “seduce” once again relates to the serpent, or Satan, that tried to be greater than God by seducing the seemingly perfect woman, Eve -- who in “Hamlet” would be Hamlet’s father’s “most seeming-virtuous queen” (187).
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
At the beginning, I thought Hamlet was a wise man. He was educated at the same school as Horatio, and the way he pondered about things showed he was not ignorant. However, the more he gets associated with this ghost he seems to be following his abrupt emotions rather than thinking logically first. He does not think things through too much. This can be seen on page 186, “ Haste, haste me to know it, that I, with wings as swift as meditation or the thoughts of love, may sweep to my revenge.”
Act 2 Scene i
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is one that has many misunderstandings going on and that is why there is so much humor created. For example, the misunderstanding that Polonius, Claudius, and Ophelia have about Hamlet’s ‘frustration with love.’ This scene not only looks at Ophelia and Polonius' vanity, but also how uncaring and oblivious they are to the real reason of Hamlet's insecure and "mad" actions.
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.
I do not understand why they try so hard to prove that Hamlet is crazy in love? It is peculiar to me how many times the word “mad” is mentioned in this scene. What is the purpose of proving that Hamlet has gone mad for love (though in actuality, he is not). They read Hamlet’s love letters and talk about how they will make a setting where Hamlet will meet Ophelia.
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I found the part when Polonius reads the love letters that Hamlet wrote to Ophelia very humorous because the words written on that letter seemed to coincidently prove Polonius and Ophelia’s theory of what causes Hamlet’s “madness.” These words that could just be words from a love letter, become words of a madman. It is funny how words can be interpreted in different ways, and in this case these words become distorted and “vile”: “ ‘To the celestial, and my soul’s idol, the most beautified Ophelia’ – That’s an ill phrase, a vile phrase, ‘beautified’ is a vile phrase. But you shall here – ‘these; in her excellent white bosom, these” (p 209).
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Through this scene, I realized that Ophelia along with her father and Hamlet’s friends are all mad themselves. Especially Ophelia, how could she be so vain to think that a man could act peculiarly solely because of her? This proves to me that she does care for Hamlet that much. If she did, would she not have asked why Hamlet acted the way he did? Instead she goes and tell-tales to her father, and accepts almost willingly that she is the reason for Hamlet’s “madness.” It is hard to say who is really mad in this play.
Act 2 Scene ii
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
I think this is a scene, where the audience really get to question whether Hamlet is mad or not. Is Polonius’ prediction correct? Or is Hamlet just pretending. The more we read on, it seems Hamlet is not so insane; he has enough sanity to know that the King called on his two friends to spy on him. Though his progress of revenge is slow, at the end of the scene (when Hamlet plans that the actors act out the death of the his father’s death) we are sure that Hamlet has not forgotten about his father’s ghost and his unjust death.
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.
Are Rosencrantz and Guildenstern really Hamlet’s friends? Were they genuinely worried about Hamlet’s madness? Or did they come just to please the King and Queen? Also, is Hamlet really mad as Polonius describes? Or is he just pretending? If so, what is his purpose?
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
There were many lines in this scene that had double entendre. For example, when Polonius questions whether Hamlet recognizes Polonius, Hamlet replies that Polonius is a ‘fishmonger’ (which we can basically take as a code for ‘pimp’). Also, I found it amusing when Hamlet talks about Polonius’ daughter having to be kept out of the sun, which he insidiously tries to say that Polonius’ daughter, Ophelia, has a womb that is like a rotting dog in the sun. Even with Hamlet’s pretty apparent comparisons, Polonius is too thick to understand them. These lines made me think that Polonius’ stupidity is going to cost him in the future.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
I was even more impressed by Hamlet because he seems to see through the people around him. When he talks with Polonius, Rosencrantz, and Guildenstern, he knows what their intentions are. Just a few lines into the conversation Hamlet tells Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to truthfully reveal the fact that the King had summoned them to spy on Hamlet. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern have no choice but to disclose the truth because Hamlet so cleverly persuades them by evoking sympathy from the past, their childhood, and long-time friendship. It seems Hamlet is not so ignorant of what goes around him. He knows that people are talking and will talk according to his own actions and words. He is a man not to be toyed with. This is especially apparent at the end of the scene when Hamlet punishes himself for not having avenged his father’s death yet. Calling himself a woman and a coward in his long soliloquy, he even decides to check whether the ghost is candid or not.
2.2.537-594
ACT 3 SCENE 1
Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene includes one of the most important speeches of all the plays in the world: “To be or not to be.” This speech is where Hamlet ruminates on suicide, death, and what we would be avoiding by being dead. This scene is also where we are able to see Ophelia and Hamlet together and whether they really love each other or not.
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.
Hamlet says that he does not love Ophelia anymore. Is this true? Or is he pretending?
Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I think Hamlet’s soliloquy in this scene is very important because it shows his vulnerability. It seems all the questions we had about Hamlet are solved through this one speech. We know that he is sane, and he knows what is going on. “To be, or not to be: that is the question…” He talks about death and how it would be better to die in some ways. This shows that Hamlet is not a simple-minded guy. The fact that he questions whether the ghost is real or not shows that Hamlet is thinking logically at least. This proves his sanity.
Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
The more I read Ophelia’s lines, I dislike her character. She seems so vain the way she hopes that Hamlet is mad because of her. She is such an obedient and weak character in front of the King and Queen that it does not seem like she is in love with Hamlet. If she were, would she not have cared for him and been on his side? Rather, she plans to spy on Hamlet and is ever so compliant.
ACT 3 SCENE 2
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This is the scene where we finally understand that Hamlet is not a mad man, but he had been pretending all along. We also discover through Claudius’ reaction to the play, that he is the killer of King Hamlet, and therefore the ghost was telling the truth.
Though Hamlet believes this, as a reader, I am still not sure if trusting the ghost and seeking revenge is for the better good. Now that Hamlet is entirely sure that Claudius is the murderer, his determination to make Claudius suffer becomes stronger than ever. I am worried that his strong emotions will cause him to be rash.
Q2. 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.
Claudius ran out of the room while the actors acted out the murder scene. But does that really mean he is the murderer of King Hamlet? Is this good enough proof? Hamlet definitely thinks so.
Why would his mother be upset about the play? Did the play poke her conscience? If not, why would she care? Also, Hamlet says that he wishes to take revenge on Gertrude as well. Is she guilty? Would it be just for Hamlet to take his revenge?
Q3. Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I liked the conversation that Hamlet has with Ophelia. He speaks in a very sarcastic way when he says, “What should a man do but be merry? For look you how cheerfully my mother looks, and my father died within’s two hours.” But, Ophelia is too thick to realize his mocking tone, that she says, “Nay, ‘tis two months, my lord.” Then what Hamlet said next was almost refreshing: “So long? Nay then, let the devil wear black, for I’ll have a suit of sables. O heavens, die two months ago, and not forgotten yet! Then there’s hope a great man’s memory may outlive his life half a year” (3.2.120-3). In these lines Hamlet says that it is incredible how a good man can pass away and not be forgotten in the time span of two months. Hamlet says these lines with much irony, yet Ophelia does not notice this. Only the readers can. I guess one of the beauties of Shakespearean plays is dramatic irony such like this one.
Q4. Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
By the end of the scene, I found Hamlet frightening. It is almost like he was becoming mad. When he says he feels cruel enough that he could devour blood, I was a little worried about his mentality. Also, it seems his emotions have taken over him a little too much when he talks about hoping he does not become like Nero (a Roman emperor who murdered his mother). He says, “O heart, lose not thy nature. Let not ever The soul of Nero enter this firm bosom.” Is his bosom really ‘firm’? I think he has become vulnerable in the heart since he met his father’s ghost. Soliloquy after soliloquy, Hamlet seems to become darker and more insecure. This soliloquy (besides the one where he talks about suicide) scares me the most and seems to foreshadow a terrible future. For example, he says, “When churchyards yawn, and hell itself breathes out contagion to this world. Now could I drink hot blood, and do such bitter business as the day Would quake to look on” (3.2.371-5) He feels he could drink blood because he feels so brutish. I think Hamlet is going nearly mad.
3.1.369-382
3.2 Questions
1. What advice does Hamlet have for the actors? Why?
Hamlet wants the actors to act naturally without making too many gestures or overdoing it as amateurish actors do. They should use subtle and discrete ways of acting to raise the eeriness and suspense of the scenes. They also should not try to get the audience laughing too easily because this would prevent the play from being serious.
2. Why does Hamlet say he especially likes Horatio (Does Hamlet see Horatio as similar to him or different from him?
He says that Horatio is most trustworthy among the men that he has met. He says that one of Horatio's gift is his ability to make good judgments and not be driven by emotions. Also, Horatio is a guy who Fortune cannot toy with. Horatio and fortune have an equal trade-off.
4. Based on 3.2.119, how much time elapsed between Act 1 and Act 2 (since the action has been continuous since the beginning of Act 2)?
About two months have passed. We know this because Hamlet says in a sarcastic tone that only two days have passed since his father's death, but then Ophelia corrects him by saying it is actually two months.
6. What is Claudius' mood as he stops the play at 3.2.247? How does Hamlet respond? If Hamlet has learned that Claudius is indeed guilty (if that's why he stopped the play and not for some other reason), Claudius has also learned something from the presentation of the play. What has Claudius learned?
Claudius becomes panicky and shocked. He sweats and shows nervousness. Hamlet finds that this is evidence that Claudius murdered his father. He becomes overjoyed and very confident that he can now take revenge on Claudius. He is maybe too sure that Claudius is the murderer. Through the play, Claudius has learned that Hamlet knows about the dark secrets of his father's death. Claudius might, therefore, try to attack Hamlet before Hamlet strikes.
7. What message do Rosencrantz and Guildenstern have for Hamlet? Despite the chaos at the end of the play, is this message unexpected after hearing Polonius' suggestion at the end of the Nunnery scene (3.1)? What lesson does Hamlet teach with a recorder?
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern tell Hamlet that his mother, Gertrude, is unhappy about the play and that she calls for him. This is not a surprise as Polonius did suggest that it may not be love that is causing Hamlet's "lunacy". Hamlet asks Guildenstern to play the recorder, and he refuses. Hamlet says that they should be able to play the recorder just as they toy with and wish to manipulate Hamlet so easily.
ACT 3 SCENE 3 -- Answer 3
1. What has Claudius decided to do with Hamlet? Who will go with him? What "theoretical" message about kingship does Rosencrantz tell to Claudius?
Claudius decides to send Hamlet off with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to England so that Hamlet does not cause any more trouble. Rosencrantz is willing to go to England with Hamlet because he believes that the needs of the king is more significant and vital than the needs of those lesser in rank (like Hamlet's). Rosencrantz is almost like the king's 'pet'.
2. Where is Polonius going?
Polonius decides to eavesdrop on Gertrude and Hamlet's conversation.
3. What does Claudius admit in his attempt to pray? Has the play actually had an effect on him? Why can't he ask for forgiveness?
In his prayer, Claudius admits that he committed the murder. It seems that he has become quite religious after watching the play. He talks about how the rain in heaven could not possibly wash away his sins. At this point, he seems quite repentant. However, he believes he cannot ask God for forgiveness because he still has all the things that he gained through his sins (such as the thrown and the queen).
ACT IV
CHARACTER QUESTIONS: CLAUDIUS
Claudius seems to find Hamlet as the source of wrong. Looking at how Claudius wants to get rid of Hamlet and calls Hamlet a disease, Claudius seems quite threatened by Hamlet.
It seems Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are like the king’s “pets.” When Claudius asks them go get Hamlet and retrieve Polonius’ body, they obey ever-so willingly.
Hamlet also talks about this in act 4 scene 2, when he compares Claudius’ servants to a sponge. Though Rosencrantz and Guildenstern obey Claudius very well now, Hamlet presumes that Claudius is just using them. Hamlet made a very good point.
Claudius seems like he would never lose his cool, but in Act 4, scene 3, Claudius gets impatient and asks Hamlet to tell him where Polonius’ corpse is. It also seems like he’s sending Hamlet away to England because he knows that Hamlet will never return. This was proven true when at the end of this scene, Claudius reveals that he has arranged Hamlet to be killed when he arrives in England.
4.5.71-92
Above, we can also see an emotional and sentimental side to him in Act 4 scene 5 when he grieves over Polonius’ death, Ophelia’s madness, and Hamlet being sent off to England. Though as a member of the audience, I do not know whether to trust Claudius, this scene shows that he is not entirely cold-blooded. But, he shows his self-centeredness as we go further into his monologue.
Claudius seems very cunning and sly in a very subtle way (though he tries to cover it up.) When Laertes is enraged about his father’s death, Claudius tells him that it is not his fault and tries to stir his anger even more. He praises Laertes in every way and tells him that Hamlet was angry that a Norman praised Laertes for his fencing skills.
Claudius also makes a master plan: he will poison Hamlet’s cup so that when Hamlet is thirsty during his dual, he will get poisoned. This is a similar way in which Claudius murdered King Hamlet: poison. This just shows how unrepentant he is. He asks for forgiveness and thinks that that will solve everything, but then he goes on to committing a similar crime. Claudius appears as a true liar and hypocrite. I think Act 4 proves that Claudius is not as innocent or sorry as he looks.
But, it is hard to deny his shrewdness. He is an intelligent man who saves his country, and his Machiavellian character is what makes him succeed in everything he puts his mind into. So, he is a successful king, who believes that the most effective use of power will require some unethical deeds. But, what sets him apart from Hamlet (who could also be regarded as a Machiavellian character because nothing stops him from taking revenge) is that he is the murderer of an innocent man: Hamlet's father. Hamlet, on the other hand, kills the villains. So, he is a hero.
Act 4 scene 1
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is where Claudius, after much anxiety, decides to send Hamlet away as he seems to cause a lot of trouble. We also get to see that Gertrude keeps her promise to Hamlet; she explains to Claudius how Hamlet has absolutely gone mad.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
How does Gertrude so easily submit to Claudius when he says Hamlet should be shipped away? Right after Claudius exclaims, “The sun no sooner shall the mountains touch But, we will ship him hence…” Gertrude does not say anything in this scene. Does Gertrude truly believe that sending Hamlet away is the best way to solve the problem?
Q3. Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I really felt Claudius’ evilness when he went on and on about how it was the fault of the parents (he and Gertrude) that drove Hamlet mad. This is when he says on page 289, “It will be laid to us, whose providence should have kept short, restraint, and out of haunt this mad young man. But so much was our love, we would not understand what was most fit…” The more I try to sympathize with Claudius and find a good side to him, his lines such as these just prove how malicious and sly he is. He tries to flatter Gertrude with his words, but they just add to the frustration of the audience. There are two kinds of evil, one that is
Q4 combined: Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Claudius orders Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to “bring the body [Polonius] into the chapel.” My question is why? Why bring him and try to find him so desperately? Claudius shows anxiety over Polonius’ death. Is this trying to show a different, more humane side to Claudius, or is he too self-centered to think of others besides his own. I had predicted that he would be a more colder person, that the death of Polonius would mean nothing to him, but looking at his reactions to Polonius’ death, I am not so sure.
Act 4 scene 2
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is where Hamlet explains to Guildenstern and Rosencrantz about Claudius and his intentions. This scene contrasts the reactions between Hamlet vs. Guildenstern and Rosencrantz, to the king. While Guildenstern and Rosencrantz are so submissive and act like “a sponge” (as Hamlet describes them), Hamlet has resentment and questions Claudius’ every move.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
I wish I could understand Hamlet’s lines when he says on page 292, “The body is with the King, but the King is not with the body. The King is a thing --… of nothing.”
What message is he trying to convey through this statement?
Q3. Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I enjoyed reading the lines by Hamlet when he describes Rosencrantz and Guildenstern as “sponges.” Hamlet goes on to say that Claudius “keeps them, like an ape an apple in the corner of his jaw, first mouthed, to be last swallowed. When he needs what you have gleaned, it is but squeezing you and, sponge, you shall be dry again (4.2.16-19).” He calls Claudius “an ape” not a human, to show his savagery, and gives a vivid image of it scrumptiously biting off what it desperately craves for. But later on, when Claudius does not need anything to chew off from them, he will treat Rosencrantz and Guildenstern like trash. I loved the analogy and reference of Claudius as an ape.
Q4 combined: Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
I am quite disappointed in Rosencrantz and Guildenstern for their ignorance and naivety. I had hoped they would be wiser by the end of the play, but it seems they are still the king’s pets. Looking at how they reacted to Hamlet’s words, they reminded me of Polonius because they seemed to just not get it. Rosencrantz reply is, “I understand you not, my lord.” Hamlet, right after, says “I am glad of it. A knavish speech sleeps in a foolish ear,” showing us that yes, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are exactly what the audience thinks of them: they are “foolish,” and his sarcastic words were wasted upon these stupid characters.
Act 4 scene 3
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is very important as it shows Claudius’ plan to get Hamlet murdered by the English. One of the significant soliloquies in the play, Claudius says “Do it, England,” meaning the English must come to good terms with Denmark by doing Claudius a favor. This is also the scene where Claudius and Hamlet talk about Polonius’ death. This adds to the motivation for Claudius to get Hamlet killed. Without this scene, we would not understand why Claudius sends Hamlet off to England.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
When Claudius sends Hamlet away, I found it peculiar why Hamlet did not refuse or try to take even a moment to think about Claudius’ intentions. Claudius’ sudden actions should have surprised Hamlet and made him want to stay, but he just says, “Good.”
Q3. Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I loved the lines by Hamlet when he replies to Claudius about where Polonius is. He replies on page 293, “At supper… Not where he eats, but where he is eaten. A certain convocation of politic worms are e’en at him.” This shows his wit and his ability to toy with Claudius’ mind. Claudius at first seems very calm as he asks Hamlet in a composed manner, “Now, Hamlet, where’s Polonius?” But after Hamlet’s lines about Polonius being eaten by worms under the soil, Claudius cries, “Alas, alas” and panics. This shows that Hamlet has the upper hand and Claudius may be at a stage where he is getting anxious and vulnerable.
Q4. Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
When asked about Polonius the second time, Hamlet replies that he is ‘in heaven,’ on page 294. This shows that Hamlet does feel bad for having murdered Polonius. Yes, he did eavesdrop on Gertrude and Hamlet’s conversation, but he is good enough to go to heaven, unlike Claudius. Hamlet’s anger and revenge was against Claudius, not Polonius, yet because he was unfortunately at the wrong time and wrong place, he got killed without a squeak.
Act 4 scene 4
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene shows what of the few lines that Fortinbras has in the play. He comes with his army and shows that he will attack Denmark. The few last scenes have all centered around Hamlet and his revenge, that the readers are reminded of a political issue between the two countries, Denmark and Norway. This is not a good sign.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
I wonder why the scene is short. Why could not Fortinbras have more lines?
Q3, Q4 combined: Quotes you liked? Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Fortinbras, like Horatio, does not have many lines, but he is a very significant character in the play. For one thing, he has a scene all for himself! And, when he says “Go safely on” to the captain of the army, I felt he is a genuine guy who is very similar to Hamlet and Laertes; he just wants revenge, for his father was also killed. I feel that though they have a similar pain, their reaction to the incident is different. While Laertes and Fortinbras instantly do something to gain revenge, Hamlet has planned for months and months, and has finally taken action. Also, it saddens me that these three are enemies in one way or another when actually they could be very good friends. The boundaries of politics and family are what sets them apart.
I came back to Act 4 scene 4 after reading the whole play, and recognized that the soliloquy by Hamlet in this scene is really his last where he shows him pondering. Up until now, Hamlet considers much about the consequences of his actions and maybe that is why it takes so long for him to murder Claudius. In this soliloquy, however, Hamlet realizes that he can no longer weigh the pros and cons; he must take swift and bold actions. We see his change of attitude when he says that from now on, "whether it be Bestial oblivion or some craven scruple Of thinking too precisely on th'event — a thought which, quartered, hath but one part wisdom and three parts coward — I [Hamlet] do not know Why yet I [Hamlet] live to say 'This thing's to do,' Sith I have cause, and will, and strength, and means to do't." I like the new Hamlet.
Act 4 scene 5
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This is a significant part of the play where we see Ophelia driven to madness, and the reactions of the other characters to her sudden deterioration in mental health. Near the end of the scene, we also see that Claudius is once again in his sly mode as he tries to calm Laertes down and act like his ‘friend’ just so that he could, to his advantage, make Laertes feel enraged towards Hamlet.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
Why is it that Horatio is always the observer of every incident? He observed when Hamlet meets his ghost, when Claudius reacts to the play that Hamlet planned out, and when poor Ophelia goes mad. Why did Shakespeare create this character? What was his purpose?
Q3. Quotations you enjoyed? Why?
I enjoyed reading the part where Ophelia gives the flowers to each of the character and explains to them what the flowers mean. I felt the motif and symbol of the flower was very subtly significant in the play. For instance, when Ophelia say, “I would give you some violets, but they withered all when my father died.” Violets refer to faithfulness. The fact that they withered shows that her faith withered along with Polonius’ death. These deep meanings in the flowers help us interpret her words. Though she may be mad, she conveys her feelings very implicitly through flowers. Flowers are definitely the focus of this scene.
Q4 combined: Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
I feel Claudius’ reaction to the madness of Ophelia is genuine. He says “O, this is the poison of deep grief; it springs all from her father’s death… O Gertrude, Gertrude, when sorrows come, they come not single spies, but in battalions…poor Ophelia divided from herself and her fair judgment…O my dear Gertrude, this, like to a murdering-piece, in many places gives me superfluous death.” He has no reason to flatter Gertrude about Ophelia, for she is in no relation to Ophelia, and neither is Claudius himself. Yet, he shows anxiety for Ophelia and does not take this matter lightly. I feel his reaction to Ophelia is one of the moments where the audience is able to feel like he does have a side to him that is not as cold or negligent.
Act 4 scene 6
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This is one of the few scenes with Horatio. As we see in this scene, it is very similar to the recent scene with Fortinbras (Act 4 Scene 4) in that it is short, yet important as it gives us a bigger picture of what is going on. The main focus of the play is of the palace where the drama between Hamlet and Claudius unraveled. But, here in Act 4 scene 6, a sailor, who has been out at sea, and Horatio (a 'minor' character) is focused upon. The fact that a whole scene is dedicated to Horatio must mean he is a significant character.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
Why is it Horatio who reads this letter written by Hamlet? Why did not Shakespeare make Hamlet read his own letter? What is the effect and purpose of this?
Q3: Quote lines you enjoyed? Why?
I was too curious about this scene that I researched about it and found that the pirate attack is an example of "deus ex machine." This is used to further the plot and bring Hamlet back to Denmark, but does not help or add to the 'thematic meaning.'
I found this literary term very interesting as I have never seen this used in literature before.
Q4: Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Since the beginning, Horatio has been a character that was not always so clear to me. He has a few lines and he does not seem to talk much, but just always observes. Even to Hamlet’s letter in Act 4 Scene 6, he does not show a reaction, or in other words, Shakespeare does not insert this in the scene. Horatio is almost simply the narrator in the scene. But, he is a significant character because he is the foil character of Hamlet. While Hamlet seems more rash and seems to talk more than do, Horatio seems more calm and collected. It might be because it is not HIS father who was murdered, but we still are able to differentiate between the two. I just wish I could see more of Horatio in the future.
Act 4 Scene 7
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This is an extremely significant scene as Laertes and Claudius plan how to murder Hamlet. They have a plan A, B, and C, which shows how determined they are to get rid of him. At the very end of the scene, Gertrude speaks of a very unfortunate incident: Ophelia is dead after she drowns. This tragic event makes Laertes even more enraged and motivated to kill Hamlet. All the while, everything is turning out to Claudius’ advantage.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
Why does Laertes not question Claudius? Is it because his emotions are overflowing and making him so vulnerable that he cannot think rationally? He trusts Claudius like he would trust his father. If he would just question some of the things that Claudius says, like about Hamlet doubting Laertes’ sword fighting skills, Laertes and Hamlet would not have to end up as such fatal enemies. Their real enemy is Claudius! Why do they not realize that!
Q3, Q4 combined: Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene. Quotes you enjoyed? Why?
Claudius reminds me of the serpent in the Biblical story of Adam and Eve. He uses certain words to make Laertes more fired up, just for his own advantage. For instance, on page 316, he says “This report of his did Hamlet so envenom with his envy that he could nothing do but wish and beg your sudden coming o’er to play with him.” This quote is just one of many where Claudius tries to make Hamlet look like a malicious man with the use of very deceitful and stressed information and words. The words like “envenom,” “envy,” and “sudden” are added to make Hamlet look malevolent. And all the while, we know that Laertes is falling even deeper into Claudius’ trap. Claudius goes on to say, “Was your father dear to you? Or are you like the painting of a sorrow, a face without a heart?” Once again, he pokes at Laertes’ manliness and loyalty to his father as a son, just for his advantage. Claudius is such a sly character, it makes the audience go mad. He is just like the serpent that tried to make Eve fall into his trap by poking some of the more vulnerable subjects with lies and subtle persuasion. To his question, “What would you undertake to show yourself your father’s son in deed more than in words?” Laertes, unsurprisingly, replies (as if he is some kind of hero) “To cut his throat I’th’ church.” Then Claudius agrees and rewards him with his mere words, “No place indeed should murder sanctuarize; Revenge should have no bounds.” But, it is ironic though that Claudius’ very own words backfires as Hamlet takes his revenge against Claudius himself.
Another part I found interesting is where Gertrude describes Ophelia’s death. The fact that she fell into the stream with her “crow-flowers, nettles, daisies, and long purples,” made me think that this was not a mere accident, but a suicide. The flowers in the previous scene showed us that they represent the different characters of this play. Maybe (and this is just my opinion), she drowned into the depths of the waters because she could not take it anymore. Her drowning with the flowers foreshadows the future. The characters will follow her death by the end of the play. And as we know, by the end Hamlet, Gertrude, Laertes, and Claudius, who represented each of Ophelia’s different flowers, die in one way or another.
4.7.141-158
ACT 5 Scene 1
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This scene is important in that it builds up to the climax (where Claudius is killed, Gertrude and Laertes dies). There are dialogues full of hatred and hostility. This is a scene where we can see the perspective of lower class men of Ophelia’s suicide. We also learn much about the setting and what the common perception of suicide is (and how it is viewed to religious Christians of that time.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
I wonder why Shakespeare put a lot of dialogues between the first clown and second clown talking about how Ophelia’s suicide went against Christianity and how she should be buried somewhere unholy.
Q3. Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
“The cat will mew, and dog will have his day.” I liked this line because it seemed to foreshadow Claudius’ future. This line shows that no matter how long it may take, the victims will have their revenge. I also liked the line, “Fall ten times treble on that cursed head Whose wicked deed thy most ingenious sense deprived thee of.” Laertes says this to Hamlet and I felt his anger and rage. I also felt sad that Laertes must have grudges towards Hamlet, when actually they should be best friends. The whole scene, I hoped that Laertes could open his eyes and not be blinded by Claudius’ false accusations. This scene is memorable to be because there is a lot of powerful language going on in this scene, mostly about revenge and hatred.
Q4. Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene.
Claudius is the slyest character yet. At the end of the scene especially, he talks aside to Laertes, “Strengthen your patience in our last night’s speech. We’ll put the matter to the present push.” It seems Claudius is trying to control Laertes’ mind, and Laertes has not the slightest doubt that Claudius might be lying. I want to ask Laertes, ‘what makes Claudius so trustworthy to you? Why do you not talk with Hamlet in a reasonable manner, rather than rashly plot a scheme?” I think Claudius is using Laertes’ insecure and vulnerable state to kill Hamlet. This just shows how Claudius is very cunning in a subtle way. He might not be the one who is under the spotlight, but he certainly controls everything backstage.
Act 5 Scene 2
Q1. Summarize and Comment in one sentence on what you think is the significance of this scene. Then what would the play be like without the scene?
This is the climax of the play, where Gertrude drinks the poison that Claudius had planned for Hamlet during his duel with Laertes. This is also where Hamlet’s revenge is complete, as Claudius is killed after he is forced to drink the poison. This is a significant scene where the words of Hamlet come to life: "The cat will mew and the dog will have his day" (5.1.282). Claudius poisoned Hamlet's father, and Claudius gets poisoned to death (not only by the sword, but is forced to gulp poison down his throat). This motif shows that Claudius' very own words, "Revenge has no boundaries" backfires. This is the scene where motifs (like the poison) help make the revenge so much sweeter, and the last pieces of the puzzle fall together. Without this scene, there would be no Hamlet. It is to this climax that the whole play was building up for. Also, Laertes' and Hamlet's unjust deaths are what makes this play a tragedy. If it were just Claudius, Polonius, and Gertrude who are killed, this play would be considered to have a happy ending. But as we know, Shakespeare never ends in a Disney-like manner. Maybe too much vengeance is not healthy.
Q2. Ask questions about the scene. Has anything in the scene caused you confusion?
I wonder why Claudius had not told Gertrude about the plan of poisoning Hamlet. If she had known or if Claudius had stopped her right before, she would not have died, but Claudius does not try much to stop Gertrude from drinking the poison. He says, “Gertrude, do not drink.” That’s all he says! There is no action. I wonder if he ever really loved Gertrude. He seems too caught up with his own life and ambitions that his love is his second priority.
Q3. Quote lines from the scene that you enjoyed and comment on them.
I did not ‘enjoy’ it, but I did think the lines on page 338 by Hamlet summarized all of Claudius’ sins: “He that hath killed my king and whored my mother, popped in between th’election and my hopes, Thrown out his angle for my proper life…” Looking at this it seems I would have had vengeance in me if I were Hamlet. I understand his rage and I find it normal. Claudius really does deserve to die. He killed his father, “whored" his mother, and ruined Hamlet’s life. After these lines, Hamlet goes on to say that these are enough evidence to kill Claudius and end his sins there. I agree with him. I guess that is why I felt so refreshed when he forced the poison into Claudius’ throat. Though Claudius had a few good traits as a king, his Machiavellian rulership left a scar on many people’s hearts. Though this play is a tragedy because Hamlet and Laertes dies at the end, I find it as a triumph that Claudius, Polonius, and Gertrude are rightfully killed.
Another quotation I enjoyed reading was one with Hamlet, when he talks about Laertes: "But I am sorry, good Horatio, That to Laertes I forgot myself, For by the image of my cause, I see The portraiture of his." Hamlet says that he sees himself in Laertes. Hamlet has been punishing himself eversince he met the ghost and was unable to take revenge for his father, so, by reaching out to Laertes and obtaining the forgiveness of Laertes, it is almost as if Hamlet is forgiving himself. Maybe, Hamlet was ready to die in the first place when he gave his consent to have a duel with Laertes. He was ready to die in order to gain forgiveness. All along I thought Hamlet consented to the duel out of stupidity, but reading his lines about him seeing "the portraiture of his [Laertes]" in himself, I am beginning to feel that Hamlet knew his fate all along. He got what he wished for in the end: the death of his father's murderer, Claudius, the forgiveness of Laertes, and a peace of mind.
Q4: Describe your reactions to a character, action, or idea you confronted in the scene. I find it peculiar why we did not talk more about Osric. He is one of the characters, besides Horatio and Fortinbras, who survived till the end of the play. I remember watching the Gibson version of Hamlet, and I asked myself, who is that maliciously sly looking man asking Hamlet whether he should like to participate in a duel against Laertes? Yes, it was Osric. And I think he deserved that portrayal. Reading over his lines in the short dialogue he has with Hamlet, I can sense that he is an affected messenger. It seems he is just a more evil version of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. He acts like he is a friendly servant, but he is actually one of the king's pet -- just another face of Claudius. We can see this in Osric's lines, he suddenly comes up to Hamlet and out of nowhere starts praising Laertes endlessly. I have never heard so much praise spoken from one man. "But in the verity of extolment, I take him to be a soul of great article, and his infusion of such dearth and rareness as, to make true diction of him, his semblable is his mirror. And who else would trace him? His umbrage, nothing more," "You are not ignorant of what excellence Laertes is --," " But in the imputation laid on him by them, in his meed he’s unfellowed."All these lines are of Osric, and we can see that his intention really is to make Hamlet jealous (at least it is the intention of Claudius). Though Osric appears obedient and courteous as he says, "Yes, my lord," to Hamlet almost half of the time, I believe Osric is another character that Hamlet should have killed at the end. I predict that as an affected courtier and umpire of the duel between Laertes and Hamlet, he knew much more than we think.
We also get a hint from Hamlet at the beginning of the dialogue, that Osric has an eerie air to him. Hamlet, first of all, calls Osrics an insect (not to his face of course, but to the side to Horatio), "I humbly thank you, sir. (aside to HORATIO) Dost know this water-fly?" He goes on to say to Horatio, "Thy state is the more gracious, for ’tis a vice to know him. He hath much land, and fertile. Let a beast be lord of beasts and his crib shall stand at the king’s mess. 'Tis a chough, but, as I say, spacious in the possession of dirt." From these lines, the readers know already that Osric is not a man to be trusted. He's a "beast" or animal that is filthy rich. That is why he is close to the king. I predict that probably this is why he keeps his mouth zipped about the whole scheme against Hamlet. So, looking at Osric's lines closely, it is evident that Osric is another character that the audience should pay attention to. Just because he is a minor role, does not mean he did not play a significant part in the play.
Osric's dialogue with Hamlet captured my attention again, that I had to make a page document solely dedicated to him :)