Questions and Answers
Where does the play take place?
Elsinore
What is happening as the play opens?
Bernardo is switching duties with Francisco on the guards platform.
Who are Marcellus and Bernardo?
Two guards at the castle.
Why has Marcellus brought Horatio for night watch?
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Who does the ghost appear to be and how is he dressed?
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What is the source of tension between Norway and Denmark?
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What do Horatio, Marcellus, and Bernardo decide to do as the scene ends?
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Describe the familial ties now existing in Claudius's court.
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What does Claudius say it is time to do?
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Why is Claudius writing to the King of Norway?
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Who is Laertes and what does he ask of the Kings?
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Describe Hamlet's present mood.
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What is Claudius's reaction to Hamlet?
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What are Hamlet's feelings about his mother's marriage to Claudius?
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What does Hamlet plan to do after Bernardo, Marcellus, and Horatio inform him?
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Why does Hamlet think the ghost of his father may be appearing?
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Who is Ophelia and what advice does Laertes give her?
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What advice does Polonius give Laertes before he leaves for France?
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What does Polonius order Ophelia to do?
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Where and when does Scene IV take place?
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What is happening during the King and Queen's celebration involving a cannon?
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Study Notes
Setting and Atmosphere
- The play is set in Elsinore, Denmark.
- The opening scene features a tense atmosphere with Bernardo and Francisco switching guard duties at night, highlighting darkness and cold.
- A ghost has been appearing, foreshadowing unrest.
Key Characters
- Marcellus and Bernardo are guards at Elsinore Castle.
- Horatio is brought by Marcellus to witness the ghost's appearance.
- The ghost resembles King Hamlet, dressed in battle armor from his victory over Norway.
Historical Context
- Tension exists between Denmark and Norway due to King Hamlet having killed King Fortinbras of Norway, thus leading to a desire for revenge from Fortinbras's son.
- The castle is being guarded in anticipation of potential conflict.
Plot Development
- Horatio, Marcellus, and Bernardo plan to inform Prince Hamlet about the ghost to confront it.
- Claudius, now King, is married to his deceased brother's wife, Gertrude, complicating family dynamics.
Claudius's Role
- Claudius urges the court to move forward from sorrow, emphasizing action despite mourning.
- He sends a letter to the King of Norway via Cornelius and Voltemand, advising them to halt Fortinbras's revenge.
Character Relations
- Laertes asks for permission to return to France, which is granted.
- Hamlet's mood is characterized by sadness and depression, indicating deeper emotional turmoil.
Family Dynamics and Conflicts
- Claudius criticizes Hamlet for his mourning, suggesting he should be more masculine, while Gertrude asks him to remain in Denmark.
- Hamlet resents his mother's hasty remarriage to Claudius, feeling betrayed.
Hamlet's Intentions
- After learning about the ghost, Hamlet intends to confront it, urging his companions to keep the matter secret.
- He speculates whether foul play led to his father's death.
Ophelia and Laertes
- Ophelia is Polonius's daughter and Laertes's sister; Laertes warns her against investing in Hamlet's affections.
- Polonius advises Laertes to be prudent in France, promoting wise behavior and self-truth.
Polonius's Advice to Ophelia
- Polonius cautions Ophelia about Hamlet's intentions, ordering her to avoid him, and she agrees.
Scene IV
- The setting transitions to the guard platform at night, where the guards await the ghost's return.
Festivals and Customs
- During a court celebration, cannons are fired as they drink.
- Hamlet criticizes the revelry, suggesting it tarnishes Denmark's reputation, stressing that even minor flaws can overshadow greatness.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your knowledge of Hamlet's opening scene with these flashcards. Explore the setting, characters, and atmosphere as the play begins in Elsinore. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding of Act 1, Scene 1.