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Questions and Answers
What is Hamlet's message about actors and audiences?
What is Hamlet's message about actors and audiences?
Shakespeare is offended by bad actors who don’t deliver their lines well and he is irritated by groundlings who only enjoy the silly parts of a play.
According to Hamlet, why is a compliment given to a poor person more valuable than one given to a nobleman?
According to Hamlet, why is a compliment given to a poor person more valuable than one given to a nobleman?
It's better to compliment the poor because they can't give anything in return.
Of all the characters in the play, who does Hamlet trust the most?
Of all the characters in the play, who does Hamlet trust the most?
Horatio.
Why is a chameleon an interesting comparison for Hamlet to make?
Why is a chameleon an interesting comparison for Hamlet to make?
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How is Polonius' college experience foreshadowing in the play?
How is Polonius' college experience foreshadowing in the play?
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Why does Hamlet make the murderer the king's nephew instead of his brother?
Why does Hamlet make the murderer the king's nephew instead of his brother?
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What reason does the queen character give for a second marriage in the murder of Gonzago?
What reason does the queen character give for a second marriage in the murder of Gonzago?
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What does Gertrude mean by saying 'the lady doth protest too much, methinks'?
What does Gertrude mean by saying 'the lady doth protest too much, methinks'?
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How does Hamlet compare himself to a recorder when talking to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?
How does Hamlet compare himself to a recorder when talking to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?
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What does Hamlet do when he mentions shapes of a camel, a weasel, and a whale to Polonius?
What does Hamlet do when he mentions shapes of a camel, a weasel, and a whale to Polonius?
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What power does Hamlet seek in his own heart during the soliloquy at the end of the scene?
What power does Hamlet seek in his own heart during the soliloquy at the end of the scene?
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Study Notes
Actors and Audiences
- Hamlet expresses disdain for poor actors and the audience's preference for lowbrow humor, revealing Shakespeare's critique of the theatrical community.
- Shakespeare's humor about groundlings highlights the irony of his play's enduring popularity despite his criticism of audience tastes.
Compliments and Value
- Compliments given to the poor are seen as more valuable because they offer no expectation of reciprocation, emphasizing genuine appreciation.
Hamlet's Trust
- Horatio is the character Hamlet trusts the most, symbolizing loyalty and true friendship as Hamlet openly declares his love for him.
Chameleon Metaphor
- Hamlet compares himself to a chameleon, suggesting he disguises his true self to gain an advantage, signifying his cautious approach towards manipulation.
Foreshadowing with Polonius
- Polonius's remark about playing Julius Caesar alludes to his impending death, echoing themes of betrayal and mistrust in relationships.
Murderer’s Identity
- Hamlet's choice to make the murderer a nephew rather than a brother avoids obviousness while subtly threatening Claudius, enhancing political tension.
Queen's Second Marriage
- In the play, the queen contends that a second marriage would be motivated solely by financial gain, reflecting societal views on marriage during the era.
Lady's Protest
- Gertrude’s comment on the queen's excessive protests indicates that over-asserting innocence often raises suspicion regarding true guilt.
Recorder Analogy
- Hamlet likens himself to a recorder, suggesting his friends are attempting to manipulate him like a musical instrument to extract information for Claudius.
Expressions of Madness
- Hamlet mentions animals to feign madness, simultaneously revealing Polonius's gullibility as he agrees with Hamlet's nonsensical statements.
Inner Conflict
- In his soliloquy, Hamlet seeks the strength to be cruel to Gertrude while suppressing his desire to kill her, showcasing his emotional turmoil.
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Description
Explore the key themes and humorous insights presented in Act 3, Scene 2 of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet'. This quiz focuses on Hamlet's reflections on actors and audiences, particularly the groundlings, revealing the playwright's true sentiments. Enhance your understanding of this timeless classic through engaging flashcards.