Questions and Answers
Why does Polonius send Reynaldo to Paris?
To spy on Laertes and gather information.
Briefly describe how Polonius suggests Reynaldo might seek 'directions out.'
By making up stories about Laertes so people who do know him will either agree or disagree and tell him the truth.
What has frightened Ophelia?
Hamlet came into her room looking like he came back from hell.
How was Hamlet dressed?
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What did Ophelia think was wrong with Hamlet?
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How does Polonius explain Hamlet's behavior?
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Why does Polonius set off to see the King?
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Why has the King sent for Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?
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Compare the beginning of this scene with the beginning of the previous scene. How are they alike?
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What reward does the Queen suggest that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern may receive?
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From line 43, does Claudius seem to value Polonius or to disregard him?
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To what causes does Gertrude attribute Hamlet's 'distemper' or 'lunacy'?
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Old Norway thought young Fortinbras was preparing to fight the _____?
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Fortinbras, however, was actually preparing to fight _____?
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What is old Norway's state of age, health and power?
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What request does Norway make of Denmark?
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What is Polonius' definition of madness?
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What does Gertrude mean when she says 'more matter with less art'?
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To what does Polonius attribute Hamlet's madness?
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Compare Hamlet's conversation with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern with his preceding conversation with Polonius. What do you conclude about Hamlet's madness?
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Why does Hamlet suspect that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern were sent for?
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What is Hamlet's mood as he describes it in lines 283-298?
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Hamlet is familiar with the players Rosencrantz mentions in line 301+. Why are these players traveling?
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According to Hamlet, what do those who used to make faces at Claudius do now?
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Why does Polonius consider it significant that Hamlet brings up Jephthah and his daughter? Is he correct?
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What concerns does Hamlet have about the boy-actress' voice and height?
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Hamlet asks the player to speak a speech from a play. What is the subject of that speech, and why is it significant?
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What play does Hamlet ask the players to perform on the following night? What does he want added?
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What contrast does Hamlet make between himself and the Player King?
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What is Hamlet's plan 'to catch the conscience of the king'?
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Study Notes
Polonius and Reynaldo
- Polonius sends Reynaldo to Paris to spy on Laertes and gather intel on his behavior.
- Reynaldo is instructed to use indirect methods, such as fabricating stories about Laertes, to elicit responses from those who know him.
Ophelia's Distress
- Ophelia is frightened by Hamlet's disheveled appearance, akin to someone returned from hell.
- Hamlet appears without a hat, in an unbuttoned shirt, and with dirty stockings around his ankles.
Hamlet's Mental State
- Ophelia fears that Hamlet's behavior indicates madness stemming from his love for her.
- Polonius concludes that Hamlet is "love crazed" due to Ophelia's rejection.
Royal Investigation
- Polonius seeks an audience with the King to discuss Hamlet's troubling state.
- King Claudius summons Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to observe and interact with Hamlet in hopes of discovering the cause of his behavior.
Surveillance and Spying
- The opening scene mirrors the previous one, with characters keen on spying to uncover truths.
- Gertrude expresses that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern will be "thanked royally" for their efforts, indicating royal approval for their surveillance.
Hamlet's Distemper
- Gertrude links Hamlet's state of mind to the recent death of his father and her quick remarriage to Claudius.
Fortinbras and Norway
- Old Norway mistakenly believes that young Fortinbras is preparing to attack the Polish.
- In truth, Fortinbras has intentions to invade Denmark, demonstrating tension in the region despite Norway's weakened state.
Polonius and Madness
- Polonius simplifies madness by stating "mad is mad," indicating his understanding of mental instability.
- Gertrude’s advice to Polonius to speak plainly reflects the need for clarity amidst confusion.
Hamlet's Interaction with Friends
- Hamlet perceives Rosencrantz and Guildenstern's arrival as a spying mission rather than a friendly visit.
- He maintains composure around them, contrasting his more erratic behavior when discussing his troubles with Polonius.
Players and Theatrical Concerns
- The traveling players seek work, revealing the struggles of entertainers in this era.
- Hamlet reflects on the transient nature of actors, lamenting that their talents may diminish with age.
The Murder Theme
- Hamlet engages in a speech about murder with the Player King, which underscores his preoccupation with his father’s death and the act of revenge.
- Hamlet commissions the players to perform "The Murder of Gonzago," incorporating a speech of his own design to provoke Claudius.
Emotional Contrast
- Hamlet contrasts his inability to express emotions over real-life tragedy with the Player King's ability to evoke tears from mere fiction.
Theatrical Plan
- Hamlet devises a plan to use the play to "catch the conscience of the king" by mirroring his father’s murder, aiming for a reaction from Claudius that would reveal his guilt.
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Description
Explore critical relationships in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' focusing on Polonius, Reynaldo, and Ophelia. This quiz highlights Polonius's schemes to understand his son Laertes and Ophelia's fears regarding Hamlet's mental state. Delve into the themes of surveillance and the implications of love-driven madness.