Hamlet Study Guide PDF

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Hamlet Study Guide by Course Hero TENSE What's Inside Shakespeare wrote Hamlet in the present tense. ABOUT THE TITLE j Book Basics................................................................................................. 1 Hamlet is a tale of mourning, madness, and revenge. The play's title refers to its central character, Prince Hamlet of Denmark, d In Context..................................................................................................... 1 and to his murdered father, King Hamlet, whose death he must avenge. a Author Biography..................................................................................... 2 h Characters................................................................................................... 2 k Plot Summary............................................................................................. 5 d In Context c Scene Summaries.................................................................................. 10 Shakespeare's plays are timeless, with a universality to which g Quotes........................................................................................................ 25 anyone can relate. Hamlet, for example, has a modern militaristic feel to its set and costuming, while at the same time l Symbols..................................................................................................... 26 it maintains a very medieval sensibility. The same can be said of Shakespeare's other plays: the stories, characters, and m Themes....................................................................................................... 27 conflicts all have 21st-century analogues. e Suggested Reading.............................................................................. 28 Some of the timelessness of Shakespeare's work has to do with the source material for his plays. The tragedy in Hamlet may, in part, stem from the deaths of Shakespeare's son and j Book Basics father. In addition, however, the play is said to have come from ancient stories that developed from some common ideas: killing a brother for personal gain, committing adultery, and AUTHOR faking madness as a method for hiding in plain sight. Stories William Shakespeare based on the idea of fratricide—the killing of one's brother—for personal gain easily bring to mind the biblical tale of Cain and YEARS WRITTEN Abel: these themes have been incorporated into tales for 1599–1601 thousands of years. Shakespeare, however, masterfully GENRE captured these universal tales and put his unique spin on them. Drama, Tragedy Beyond the Cain and Abel story, the oldest-known source for PERSPECTIVE AND NARRATOR Hamlet is historian Saxo Grammaticus's Gesta Danorum Hamlet is written in objective third-person point of view. To ("Deeds of the Danes"; translated into English as The Danish give audiences some insight into characters' inner thoughts, History; c. 1185–1202). In this tale, Grammaticus documents Shakespeare uses short speeches (asides) and longer long-standing oral legends. And though this is most likely the speeches (soliloquies) in which characters speak their earliest written source material, scholars speculate that thoughts aloud. Shakespeare may have relied on a more contemporary work, Hamlet Study Guide Author Biography 2 such as Thomas Kyd's The Spanish Tragedy, dating from the By 1592 he had established himself in London and found 1580s or early 1590s. success as both actor and playwright with the company Lord Strange's Men. During the plague outbreaks that shut down In addition to the universality of his plays, Shakespeare often many public theaters, Shakespeare joined a new company, draws audiences in and holds their attention through the use of Lord Chamberlain's Men (later called the King's Men). This dramatic and situational irony. Dramatic irony happens when company was one of two well-known London companies. The audience members are aware of a situation that the play's group performed primarily at the Globe Theater—often for characters know nothing about. Situational irony involves a Queen Elizabeth I and later for King James I. Eventually, situation whose outcome is different from what is expected. Shakespeare would own a share of the theater and would remain with both the company and the theater for the rest of his career. a Author Biography Shakespeare died in April 1616. Some sources list the date as April 23, but others consider that date a guess, romanticized William Shakespeare's birthday is traditionally celebrated on by the idea that he was born and died on the same day. More April 23, although there are no records of his birth. The closest than four centuries later, his writing remains one of literature's researchers have is a baptismal record from Holy Trinity greatest influences—read, performed, referenced, and enjoyed Church in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, dated April 26, 1564. by people of all ages in countries all over the world. His 38 plays were likely written between the late 1580s and 1613. Marriage records show that 18-year-old William married 26- h Characters year-old Anne Hathaway in November 1582. The following year, Anne gave birth to the first of their children, Susanna. Twins Judith and Hamnet were born in 1585. Tragically, Hamnet—Shakespeare's only son—died in 1596 at age 11. Hamlet Critics such as Edward Dowden and Samuel Taylor Coleridge Prince Hamlet is a gentle, deep-thinking, loving, and loyal man. believed that events in Shakespeare's life influenced the He is not only intelligent but also quick-witted, appreciative of writing of Hamlet. In particular, they point to the deaths of his his standing, and self-aware. He is a decent soul, well-liked by father in 1601 and of his son, whose name some intimate is an those close to him. As an only child, he is consumed with grief alternate spelling of Hamlet. after the death of his father, King Hamlet. Audiences get as tangled in his thinking as he is, especially those who get stuck, Whether Shakespeare's grief for his dead father and son found as Polonius does, in wondering whether the prince is mad. an outlet in the writing of Hamlet, one pivotal piece of the drama is very likely based on a historical incident. Claudius's poisoning of King Hamlet by pouring a vial of "cursed hebona" into his ear and Hamlet's rewrite of The Murder of Gonzago Polonius both echo the 1538 murder of Italy's Francesco Maria Della Polonius is counselor to the king and father to Laertes and Rovere, Duke of Urbino. Marquis Luigi Gonzaga, jealous of the Ophelia, although his children seem to have more heart and duke's social status, persuaded the duke's barber to kill his more integrity. That he loves his children is a strength, but it employer by dripping poison into his ear. The dramatic nature also seems that he might sacrifice their best interests for what of the crime helped the story spread throughout Europe and is the most politically correct decision. And while Polonius is in years later gave Shakespeare inspiration for Hamlet's plot. a profession that may demand that type of submissiveness, Much of Shakespeare's life was spent in either Stratford or one could argue that his tendency toward action without London. His childhood, early married life, and later years were thought—a tendency that some audiences might say is in a centered in Stratford, but his theatrical life was based in proportion inverse to that of Hamlet's—is a contributing factor London. to both Ophelia's and his own demise. Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Characters 3 gentle, loving, older brother. He shows his loyalty, affection, Claudius concern—and a bit of wisdom—when he speaks with his sister about Hamlet. Especially telling is Laertes's explanation to Claudius is the king of Denmark. As the tale opens, Claudius Ophelia that for persons of state, such as Hamlet, the good of has recently ascended to the throne, taking his deceased the country often trumps individual desire—especially with brother's (and Hamlet's father's) position; to the chagrin of regard to choice of partner. many, he has also married his brother's widow, Gertrude. Claudius is a deceitful, corrupt, jealous, and controlling man—characteristics exhibited again and again throughout the play. Claudius carries himself well at the outset of the play; his Ophelia nature is cordial and reserved as one might expect of well- The daughter of Polonius and sister of Laertes, Ophelia is also bred royalty—but this feels forced, or "played." Little by little, Hamlet's love interest. She is a young, bright, and gentle we see Claudius's true nature: cold, calculating, and self- woman, comfortable even with those above her in rank, like seeking, in contrast to Hamlet's gentle, introspective nature. Gertrude. Although the depth of her relationship with Hamlet is difficult to discern, she is undoubtedly devoted to him. Her unbridled devotion, along with her obvious inexperience in Horatio love—as well as Hamlet's determination to drive her away from him—all figure into her misery and, ultimately, her heartbreaking Loyal friend to Prince Hamlet, Horatio is also a student at death. Wittenberg in Germany. He is the person the sentries Barnardo and Francisco alert after they have twice seen a ghostly version of the recently deceased king. His role, which he performs well, is trusted ally and logical thinker. In a sense, it is Gertrude the calm and collected Horatio who represents a halfway point Gertrude is queen to Claudius, the current king of Denmark, between the introspective Hamlet and those who act without and the widow of his brother, the elder King Hamlet. She is also thinking, such as Fortinbras (the young prince of Norway), mother to Prince Hamlet, the main character in this tragedy. A Polonius, and, at times, Claudius. Horatio, by virtue of having central quality of Gertrude's character is that she loves her Hamlet's trust and company, is often privy to the prince's more son; it is apparent from the outset and is a driving force for her. private thoughts and plans. Through Horatio, Shakespeare often gives the audience insight into Hamlet, too. And, ultimately, because Horatio is so close to all that transpires—and yet not immediately involved—he is able to be Ghost a witness to the events in Denmark and, as Hamlet requested The ghost is the spirit of Hamlet's father, who has recently of him, communicate that tale to the world. died. The ghost tells Hamlet that his was not a natural death. He says he was murdered by Claudius, his brother, and he urges Hamlet to avenge his death by killing Claudius. The Laertes ghost's message unnerves Hamlet. He does not know whether to believe the ghost, or to think it some sort of demon there to Adventurous yet obedient, Laertes, whose name comes from trick him into committing murder. Homer's The Odyssey, is Polonius's son and Ophelia's brother. Early in the play, Laertes, who has most recently been living in France, comes across as a young man eager to begin his life. When introduced to the audience, he has come to the royal court, seeking permission from Claudius to return to France. He is a bit hesitant, maybe even tongue-tied in that setting. But in a scene shortly after this, with Ophelia in the family home, his character becomes a bit clearer. In that setting, Laertes is the Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Characters 4 Character Map Laertes Father Loyal, brash, dedicated youth Horatio Ophelia Intelligent, creative Murders Symbol of purity; student driven to madness Loyal friends Love interest Hamlet Tormented prince; grieving Father over his father's death Uncle Murders Murders Claudius Polonius Corrupt king; rules Father Aged counselor; full of advice without a conscience Ghost The spirit of King Hamlet; forced to wander the earth Main Character Other Major Character Minor Character Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Plot Summary 5 Full Character List Guildenstern Guildenstern, a friend of Hamlet, is hired by Claudius to spy on Hamlet. Character Description Marcellus Marcellus is a castle guard. Hamlet is the grief-​stricken protagonist Osric is the king's pretentious Hamlet Osric of the play. messenger. Polonius is the king's chief counselor and Reynaldo is a spy sent to monitor Polonius Reynaldo father of Laertes and Ophelia. Laertes's activities in France. Claudius is the corrupt brother of King Rosencrantz, a friend of Hamlet, is hired Hamlet who takes the throne after the Rosencrantz Claudius by Claudius to spy on Hamlet. king's death and marries his former sister-​in-​law. The sailor delivers letters from Hamlet to Sailor Horatio and Claudius. Horatio is Hamlet's school friend who Horatio remains a loyal companion. The sexton and gravedigger are responsible for digging Ophelia's grave. A Sexton Laertes is Polonius's son—a strong, sexton is a church official who looks after Laertes active, and noble confidant for Hamlet. church property. Ophelia Ophelia is Hamlet's love interest. Voltemand is a courtier sent as Voltemand ambassador to Norway. Gertrude Gertrude is Hamlet's mother. Ghost The ghost is the spirit of King Hamlet. k Plot Summary Barnardo Barnardo is a castle guard. The play opens soon after the death of the king of Denmark. Claudius, the king's brother, has claimed the throne and taken The captain is a member of Fortinbras's Captain troops; Hamlet shares a conversation his sister-in-law—Hamlet's mother, Gertrude—as his queen. with him about thoughts and actions. These events have left Prince Hamlet distraught and grieving. As the story begins, the ghost of King Hamlet appears in Cornelius is a courtier sent as Elsinore, Denmark's royal castle. Sentinels who witness the Cornelius ambassador to Norway. ghost alert Horatio, who, upon seeing the ghost himself, goes to tell his dear friend Hamlet. First Player, a member of the company of players, agrees with Hamlet that they will Hamlet's world is shaken anew when Horatio tells him that he First Player perform his edited version of The Murder of Gonzago. has seen a ghost resembling his father. When Hamlet joins Horatio (Act 1, Scene 4) and sees the ghost himself, he is terrified. The ghost tells Hamlet that he has been murdered Fortinbras, prince of Norway, is the Fortinbras quick-​thinking and passionate foil to and that Claudius poisoned him. He commands Hamlet to Hamlet. avenge his death but insists that he not harm his mother. Hamlet questions whether the ghost is real, but his mourning is The gravedigger and sexton are now compounded by rage. Gravedigger responsible for digging Ophelia's grave. Earlier, Hamlet had returned from his studies in Germany after learning of his father's death. Already in mourning, Hamlet is Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Plot Summary 6 pushed deeper into despair by his mother's hasty second Hamlet seeks out the actors and asks them to perform a marriage. It is clear from his soliloquy in Act 2 that he is version of the play The Murder of Gonzago. By inserting a confused that his mother could disregard the sorrow of losing scene depicting his father's murder, Hamlet hopes his revised her husband and enter into marriage with his brother. play, The Mousetrap, will catch the king in his guilt. Meanwhile, Claudius seeks some semblance of normalcy for Claudius and Polonius plan to eavesdrop on Ophelia and Denmark. Holding court one afternoon, Claudius draws Hamlet. As they hide nearby, Hamlet comes upon Ophelia and attention to young Prince Fortinbras of Norway, who is raising they chat. However, he quickly becomes suspicious of an army against Denmark. Fortinbras seeks to avenge the Ophelia's motives when she tries to return gifts he gave her. death of his father, who had died in battle against King Hamlet He rages wildly with sorrow and disappointment and tells some years before. Claudius does not see the parallel between Ophelia to "get thee to a nunnery" before leaving her. that young prince and his nephew, nor does he take a note of caution from the situation. Ophelia is devastated; Claudius and Polonius are shocked. Claudius realizes Hamlet poses a threat to him. He decides to Claudius casts a more fatherly eye on Laertes, son of his send Hamlet to England to be rid of him. Polonius agrees but counselor Polonius, who seeks the king's blessing for his to suggests one last try: have Gertrude talk with him after the return to France, which Claudius approves. Claudius next play that evening, and he, Polonius, will eavesdrop on the chastises Hamlet for the unseemly way in which he mourns for conversation. his father, after which he and Hamlet's mother deny his desire to return to Germany, insisting he stay in Elsinore. That evening the theater company performs for Claudius's court. As the players reenact the scene of the king being As Laertes prepares to leave for France, he confronts his poisoned in the garden—as the ghost told Prince sister, Ophelia, about her relationship with Prince Hamlet. He Hamlet—Claudius flies into a panicked rage, halting the play warns her not to take Hamlet's affection seriously. Her father, and fleeing the room. Hamlet, with Horatio beside him, takes Polonius, overhears; when Laertes has gone, he agrees with this as an admission of guilt. his son's advice and orders Ophelia to avoid Hamlet. Heartbroken, Ophelia says she will obey. After the play, Claudius meets with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern and tasks them with taking Hamlet to England. Sometime later, Ophelia tells Polonius of a distressing When they leave to find Hamlet, Claudius admits to King encounter with Prince Hamlet. She says Hamlet came to her Hamlet's murder in a soliloquy. He attempts to pray, but finds looking bewildered. Polonius thinks Hamlet's love for Ophelia is he cannot repent, because he is unwilling to give up the driving him mad and decides he must tell the king and queen of rewards gained from the murder: the throne and his wife. this occurrence. Hamlet passes and sees Claudius on his knees. He thinks how easy it would be to kill his uncle then and there, but decides not When Polonius visits the king and queen, they are already to. Hamlet believes that to kill Claudius while he is in prayer meeting with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, two of Hamlet's would grant him entry to Heaven, which Hamlet does not want. childhood friends, in an attempt to figure out Hamlet's strange behavior. Also at hand are Voltemand and Cornelius, the Hamlet meets with Gertrude in her chambers; Polonius hides ambassadors Claudius sent to Norway, who are reporting that nearby. Hamlet confronts Gertrude about her part in King "Old Norway" has commanded Fortinbras to abandon Hamlet's death. When she cries out, Polonius shouts, revealing aggression against Denmark. Fortinbras vows obedience and his presence, but not his identity. Believing that Claudius is will turn his attention to Poland. Finally, Polonius relates the hiding there, Hamlet stabs Polonius through the tapestry and story of Hamlet's encounter with Ophelia; he tells the king and kills him. Hamlet leaves, dragging Polonius's body with him. The queen that he believes Hamlet's love for Ophelia has driven him encounter convinces Gertrude that her son is indeed mad. mad. Gertrude goes to tell Claudius of her meeting with Hamlet and Hamlet meets Rosencrantz and Guildenstern and becomes of Polonius's death. Once he is alone, Claudius reveals that suspicious of their presence in Elsinore. When they tell him Hamlet is also soon to die; the documents he is sending with that a company of players (actors) has arrived, he is excited. the ship call for Hamlet's execution. Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Plot Summary 7 As Hamlet, Rosencrantz, and Guildenstern head to the boat, Hamlet's next hit on Laertes poisons him. they spy Fortinbras and his army en route to Poland. Hamlet is struck by the contrast between himself and young Fortinbras. Suddenly, the queen collapses. As she dies, Laertes reveals to He sees Fortinbras's ability to act—instead of think—as a mark Hamlet that both of them have also been poisoned by the foil of greatness. When contrasting himself with Fortinbras, Hamlet now in Hamlet's hands. Laertes reveals the plot to everyone, finds himself wanting. proclaiming that the king is to blame. Before he closes his eyes for the last time, he and Hamlet exchange forgiveness. Ophelia asks to meet with Gertrude and Claudius, and they realize that she has gone mad with grief. Laertes, back from Enraged, Hamlet kills Claudius—stabbing him with the France, storms in to see the king and queen and is heartbroken poisoned foil and forcing him to drink the rest of the poisoned to find Ophelia in such a confused condition. Claudius wine. Hamlet watches him die, but he himself is soon to follow. convinces Laertes they had nothing to do with Polonius's death As the prince approaches death, he begs Horatio to carry his or Ophelia's madness. He counsels Laertes to be patient and story to the world. encourages him to follow his counsel to exact his revenge. Young Fortinbras, returning from Poland, arrives to find the Laertes consents. gruesome scene—Hamlet, Laertes, Gertrude, and Claudius all A messenger finds Horatio, bearing letters from Hamlet to dead—and to hear Horatio's explanation. Horatio and to Claudius. Hamlet's letter informs Horatio that he is back in Denmark and has much to tell him about his failed trip to England. He asks that Horatio lead the messenger to the king to deliver his letters to him. After that, the messenger will lead Horatio to him. Claudius and Laertes are together when the king receives word of Hamlet's return. They plot a fencing duel between Hamlet and Laertes, with Laertes using a poison-tipped foil (sword). As a backup, they plan to have a poisoned cup of wine ready for Hamlet to drink. They intend to give Laertes his revenge without putting either of them in harm's way. As they conclude their meeting, Gertrude brings word that Ophelia has drowned. Hamlet and Horatio meet in the graveyard where Ophelia is about to be buried. As the funeral procession gathers around her grave, the grief-stricken Laertes jumps into her grave and proclaims his love. Hamlet, overcome in the moment, follows, and they fight. Horatio and the other mourners separate the two as Hamlet boldly proclaims his love for Ophelia. When Horaito and Hamlet leave the graveyard and enter the castle, Osric, one of Claudius's courtiers, tells Hamlet that Claudius has wagered on Hamlet to win a fencing match against Laertes. Hamlet accepts the challenge and says he will strive to win on the king's behalf. The duel begins. Hamlet strikes Laertes twice and Gertrude drinks to Hamlet's health, unknowingly drinking the poisoned wine. Alarmed by the way the competition is going, Laertes finally strikes Hamlet, they scuffle, and the foils are exchanged. Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Plot Summary 8 Plot Diagram Climax 5 Rising Action 4 Falling Action 6 3 2 7 1 Resolution Introduction Introduction Falling Action 1. King Hamlet dies; Claudius takes crown and marries 6. Claudius and Laertes conspire to kill Hamlet; Ophelia dies. Gertrude. Resolution Rising Action 7. Gertrude, Claudius, Laertes, and Hamlet die. 2. Hamlet is visited by his father's ghost. 3. Laertes and Polonius warn Ophelia to stay away from Hamlet. 4. The Mousetrap is staged. Climax 5. Hamlet kills Polonius and is banished to England. Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Plot Summary 9 Timeline of Events Before action begins Claudius kills King Hamlet. Four weeks later Claudius marries Gertrude, King Hamlet's widow. Four weeks later Hamlet sees the ghost. Two months later Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are sent to spy on Hamlet. One day later Hamlet stages The Mousetrap. Later that evening Hamlet kills Polonius. Later that evening Claudius banishes Hamlet to England. Eight weeks later Claudius and Laertes plot to kill Hamlet. Later that day Ophelia dies. One day later Hamlet returns—he, Claudius, Gertrude, and Laertes die. Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Scene Summaries 10 believer, curious about what this ghostly omen foreshadows c Scene Summaries for Hamlet and the country. Horatio is able to introduce the audience to the Fortinbras subplot, which will gain importance as the story progresses. In particular, Horatio relates that Act 1, Scene 1 Fortinbras is "Of unimproved mettle hot and full" and is raising an army to march on Denmark to avenge his father's loss. This information explains that the young Fortinbras is a man more about action than thought. His character stands in contrast to Summary Hamlet—a realization that the prince himself eventually will come to. Having Fortinbras as a foil helps the audience Sentinels Barnardo and Francisco stand the night watch at understand Hamlet's conflicted self and makes his story all the Denmark's Elsinore castle. Francisco is about to go off duty more tragic. when Marcellus, another sentinel, appears with Horatio, a friend of young Prince Hamlet. As soon as Francisco leaves, Marcellus and Barnardo eagerly discuss two appearances of a ghost during their watch. The spirit resembles the late King Act 1, Scene 2 Hamlet, Prince Hamlet's father. Horatio is unconvinced. As they attempt to convince him that the apparition is more Summary than their imaginations, the ghost appears to the three of them. At the others' urging, Horatio begs the ghost to speak, but it Claudius holds court at Elsinore and thanks everyone for their refuses and slips away. support through the kingdom's recent events: the death and funeral of his brother, King Hamlet, and Claudius's subsequent Horatio is terrified and suggests that the ghost's presence marriage to Gertrude. Claudius then turns to the matter of signifies something terrible for Denmark. Noting that the ghost young Fortinbras of Norway, giving everyone the latest is wearing the very armor he had on when he fought old information on the warlike young man's actions. Fortinbras of Norway, Horatio recounts the story of King Hamlet, who was drawn into battle with Fortinbras over a small Claudius speculates that Fortinbras thinks Denmark may be in piece of land. Fortinbras is killed in the battle, and, as victor, chaos and that this environment may offer him an advantage. King Hamlet wins back the land—land that Fortinbras's son, Claudius relates that he has written to Fortinbras's uncle, the also named Fortinbras, now seeks to reclaim. present king of Norway who is gravely ill. The letter informs the older man of his nephew's actions. As Horatio's story concludes, the ghost appears again and seems about to speak. Suddenly, however, the rooster crows Claudius then turns his attention to Laertes, son of the with the rising sun and the ghost slips away. Horatio suggests counselor Polonius. With a show of fatherly affection for they inform Hamlet of what they've seen. Laertes, Claudius presses to know what he has to ask. Laertes, having come from France for Claudius's coronation, now asks permission to return to France. Ascertaining that Laertes has Analysis his father's blessing to depart, Claudius agrees that Laertes may go. Shakespeare kicks off the play with an intriguing scene that pulls the audience right into the story: a recently deceased Claudius and Gertrude then chide Hamlet about his continued king shows up in ghostly form, military tensions lie ahead, and mourning for his father. Claudius tells Hamlet that while it is Denmark is in a state of general unrest. The playwright imparts commendable to honor one's father, to so prolong a display a wealth of information in a short scene, including—by shows a weakness of character. He then invites Hamlet to look reference to what the ghost is wearing—some backstory that upon him as a father and wishes Hamlet to reconsider going informs about the tension between Denmark and Norway. back to school in Wittenberg and instead stay in Denmark with them. Gertrude echoes his words. As Hamlet vows to obey, Horatio develops from a skeptic into a concerned, even fearful, Claudius and Gertrude leave. Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Scene Summaries 11 Alone, Hamlet reveals the depth of his despair, saying that father [t]han I to Hercules." were it not against God's law, he would contemplate suicide. He speaks of how weary he is of life, and we come to He ends his soliloquy saying that while his heart is breaking, he understand that it is not just his father's death that has Hamlet must hold his tongue. The reason for his resolve is not made in such sorrow but also the quick marriage of his mother to his clear. Perhaps he does not wish to emotionally wound his uncle. mother, or perhaps he feels threatened by Claudius—or perhaps he wants to hide his anger until he is ready to strike at Hamlet's grief is interrupted by the entrance of Horatio, Claudius. At this moment, Shakespeare ushers in Horatio, Marcellus, and Barnardo, who have come to tell him of the Marcellus, and Barnardo with their startling news. It is an ghost they've seen. Wildly shocked and interested, Hamlet intense moment for Hamlet to hear that the ghost of his father peppers them with questions and makes plans to stand watch walks Elsinore Castle, and such cliff-hanging moments keep with them that night. As the men part, Hamlet asks them to tell both the tension and the sense of tragedy ramped through the no one else what they have seen. The others, swearing their course of the play. loyalty to him, give their word. Act 1, Scene 3 Analysis Shakespeare again packs a lot of information into a single scene, some of it played out here and some previous action Summary communicated in the dialogue. This scene gives a firsthand As Laertes prepares to head back to France, he and Ophelia look at the new king and queen, as well as some understanding talk about his trip and promise to write to each other, but of their strained relationship with Prince Hamlet. Hamlet's Laertes quickly steers the conversation to the topic of Ophelia emotional disturbance is readily visible. His unease is shown in and Hamlet's relationship. Showing the concern of a thoughtful an aside about the added level to which he and Claudius are older brother, Laertes warns Ophelia not to take Hamlet's now related: they are now both uncle/nephew and attention too seriously. Laertes tells her that a person of stepfather/stepson. His declaration that he and Claudius are Hamlet's stature does not have the liberty to choose a mate, not at all alike gives the audience insight into Hamlet's feelings and reminds Ophelia that the welfare of a prince's country may about his uncle—that he is hesitant to trust him. His remarks depend upon that choice. Reciprocating Hamlet's affection, he foreshadow what will become ever clearer: the two men truly adds, could damage her reputation. are not alike. While Ophelia promises to take Laertes's counsel to heart, This scene also provides the first real view of Claudius's their conversation is interrupted by their father, Polonius, who character in the fatherly way he behaves toward Laertes, is surprised to find Laertes still in residence. Once Laertes contrasted with the harsher manner in which he deals with his leaves, Polonius echoes much of his warnings about Hamlet, stepson Hamlet. dismissing Ophelia's claims that Hamlet's expressions of love Shakespeare provides a brief but instructive view into the are sincere. As the scene closes, Polonius forbids her to spend relationship between Gertrude and Hamlet. Her plea for any more time with Hamlet, and Ophelia submits. Hamlet to stay in Denmark suggests she truly values her only child. And because Hamlet obeys, it shows he is devoted to both his mother and father. In his soliloquy, however, he Analysis expresses disappointment in his mother because of her ability The scene—basically just conversations between two siblings to move on so quickly after her husband's death. Hamlet and then between a father and his two children—does a lot of believes his parents' relationship was strong—full of love, work, both in developing character and in building the plot. affection, and commitment—so he finds it incomprehensible and even disloyal that she could so easily enter into a The audience gains insight into Laertes and Ophelia's relationship with Claudius, who Hamlet says is "no more like my characters. For example, as Laertes questions Ophelia about Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Scene Summaries 12 her relationship with Prince Hamlet, he appears as the caring older brother. Laertes also comes across as confident and Act 1, Scene 4 practical, with straightforward reasoning and a gentle style. Being older—and no doubt because he is a male and has been beyond the gates of Elsinore and the borders of Denmark—he Summary is more worldly than his sister and aware of the trouble that a young man's attention can cause a young woman's reputation. Hamlet and Horatio accompany Marcellus on his watch. Near midnight they hear much revelry from within the castle, and Ophelia, for her part, shows herself to be young and Hamlet remarks that the king is drinking and partying again. He inexperienced, but also earnest and without guile. She is talks at length about how such wild behavior has given sincere in her love for Hamlet and believes he is equally Denmark a riotous reputation, taking away from the country's sincere, but she appears oblivious to the potential darker side strengths and positive qualities. of a young man's intentions. Both Ophelia and Laertes seem thoughtful, which stands in contrast to what we learn of Hamlet carries the thought further, talking about how one's Polonius in both the following conversation and in the unfolding faults can overwhelm all the positive attributes one has. Hamlet play. is then stunned by the ghost's appearance and that it indeed appears to be his father. He begs the ghost to speak to him Polonius then talks first with Laertes and then with Ophelia. and to tell him why he has come. The audience gets an initial glimpse into Polonius's character. Whereas his children seem to be straightforward and sincere, In response, the ghost beckons Hamlet to come away with him, Polonius appears somewhat self-absorbed and politically which Hamlet is eager to do. Horatio cautions Hamlet not to minded—even in situations where his children are concerned. follow the spirit, fearing it is dangerous. Both Horatio and This scene also captures Polonius's tendency to use many Marcellus try to stop Hamlet from following, but the prince is words when one would do. determined. He breaks free and follows the ghost. Horatio and Marcellus, in turn, follow Hamlet. The scene communicates backstory while moving the plot forward. The scene provides more information about Laertes, Ophelia, and Polonius, and a sense of the society and hierarchy Analysis in Denmark. Hamlet is observed through others' eyes and the scene gives enough information about Hamlet and Ophelia's This short, powerful scene at last confronts Hamlet with the relationship to show that it's a matter to watch as the play ghost. As the scene opens, Hamlet sits in watch with Horatio unfolds. and Marcellus, listening to boisterous revelry from within the castle that further taints Claudius's character: he is more Reality versus appearance is a key theme that runs through interested in raucous celebration than in honoring the memory the play and is central to this scene. "What are Hamlet's true of his dead brother. intentions?" both Laertes and Polonius are asking. "Is he what he seems?" or "is he deceiving Ophelia?" Even as Polonius Hamlet remarks that this kind of behavior damages Denmark's cautions Ophelia that Hamlet's intentions might not be what image with other countries and although Claudius is not the they seem, he is actually more concerned with how her actions first ruler to indulge in such revelry, he seems to believe that might affect his reputation. Those same motivations underlie Claudius takes part in it excessively. If nothing else, this his advice to Laertes. So much of what Polonius counsels has sidebar tells us about Claudius and Hamlet's view of his to do with outward appearance and with little regard for an uncle/stepfather. inner self. The scene shifts sharply with the appearance of the ghost. It sets a stark contrast between Hamlet's relationship with his uncle versus his father. He is distant and has a negative view of his uncle, while he is so aligned with his father he will follow him, even in death. Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Scene Summaries 13 Shakespeare uses this exciting, tension-filled moment to strangely he acts in the future. Three times, before they can introduce a few important ideas. The first is the depth of swear, the ghost cries out "Swear!" Horatio and Marcellus Hamlet's sadness. When Horatio cautions him about following promise, and as the three men leave, his final words capture the ghost, Hamlet scoffs: "I do not set my life at a pin's fee." both his rage and sorrow. This notion of "to be or not to be" will grow louder with each scene, although whether or not Hamlet has the fortitude for action also becomes a point of contention. Analysis The theme of madness is also introduced when Horatio—trying Each scene in which the ghost of King Hamlet appears adds to dissuade Hamlet from following the ghost—suggests it might tremendous complexity to the plot. With King Hamlet's ghost "deprive your sovereignty of reason [and] draw you into now present and speaking, he is revealing actions and even madness." Whether real or feigned, madness becomes central motivation—particularly around his own death—that the to the play—particularly around Hamlet—and particularly characters and audiences would not otherwise know. For because much of what transpires between the ghost and Hamlet, he is a catalyst, capable of turning the course of the Hamlet takes place out of sight and earshot of others. play's action. He is also a pivotal element when considering themes such as madness or revenge. Act 1, Scene 5 The ghost's order for Hamlet to avenge his death increases the play's tension and furthers Hamlet's development. Because he knows the details of his own death—details no one other than Claudius would otherwise be able to impart—he changes the Summary course of the play's action. The information he conveys takes the play from a simple drama to a story of revenge. Even at this Hamlet follows the ghost to another part of the castle wall, point, Hamlet's life parallels Fortinbras's. There are two where the ghost tells Hamlet he must avenge his murder. The princes, two dead king fathers, and although they died under ghost explains that the citizens of Denmark believe the king different circumstances, the sons are left to consider revenge. died after being bitten by a snake while napping in his orchard. In reality, the only "serpent" he encountered was his brother On a more personal level for the title character, the ghost's Claudius, who now wears the crown. appearance moves Hamlet from being simply a grieving son to an aggrieved one. Hamlet was filled with sorrow before the The ghost tells Hamlet how Claudius poured poison into his ghost made himself known, and he was already unsettled by ears as he slept, thus stealing his life, crown, and wife. Even as Claudius and Gertrude's hasty marriage. Once the ghost he reiterates his demand that Hamlet take revenge on appears to Prince Hamlet bearing information that Hamlet Claudius, the ghost tells the prince not to touch his mother, feels must be the truth—that Claudius murdered his Queen Gertrude. Insisting Hamlet to leave his mother to father—Hamlet is still sorrowful but a huge wave of rage has heaven, the ghost disappears as dawn arrives. swept in. In light of the obvious friction between him and Hamlet, overwhelmed by what he has seen and heard, is a Claudius in Act 1, Scene 2, there is no doubt that this new mixture of grief, anger, and confusion. He flies from one information warns of potential violence. thought to another in a soliloquy that is both sorrowful and raging. He closes with a commitment to the ghost's entreaty just before Horatio and Marcellus find him. Act 2, Scene 1 Horatio and Marcellus are eager to know what transpired between Hamlet and the ghost, but Hamlet responds to their questions by talking in confusing circles. He asks them to Summary promise that they will tell no one of what they have seen and Polonius sends his servant, Reynaldo, to France to bring heard that night. He presses them to swear on his sword, and Laertes money and snoop into his son's life. Polonius suggests adds that they must hold to their promise no matter how Reynaldo should ask around about Laertes to discover how he Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Scene Summaries 14 is living. In directing Reynaldo, Polonius urges his servant to is being forced to appear uninterested in Hamlet—a man she suggest some negative qualities about Laertes—gaming, obviously loves. drinking, fencing, and swearing—when he talks with people. Polonius is confident this method will yield the truth about In this scene and as the play progresses, the audience sees Laertes's behavior abroad. the harm that such deceit causes or potentially causes. For example, Polonius's lack of honesty damages the faith that In the second half of the scene, Ophelia enters distraught. She Reynaldo, much less Laertes or Ophelia, can place in him. He relates to Polonius that Hamlet came to her in her chamber relies on deceit in his treatment of his children, expects others disheveled and confused. Believing Hamlet to be mad with lust to also act deceitfully, and has no qualms about using deceit to for Ophelia, Polonius asks if she has said anything upsetting to achieve his goals. The layers of deceit also contribute to him. Ophelia answers that she has not spoken with him but has Hamlet's sorrow, disillusionment—and rage—regarding his simply refused his letters and denied him any contact, as father's death. Polonius instructed. Polonius is convinced that by telling Ophelia to avoid Hamlet, he has inadvertently fanned the flames of the prince's love. He Act 2, Scene 2 tells Ophelia that they must tell the king and queen about the romantic connection between Hamlet and her, adding that concealing it might cause more grief than the knowledge that Summary Hamlet has fallen for someone "beneath him." Claudius and Gertrude hire Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, two of Hamlet's childhood friends, to spend time with Hamlet, Analysis hoping they will be able to determine the cause of his strange behavior. The theme of truth versus deception is rampant in this scene. After attendants take the friends to visit Hamlet, Polonius, As it opens, Polonius is sending his servant to France to bring followed closely by ambassadors Voltemand and Cornelius, Laertes money and check up on him, even though Laertes has join the royal pair. The ambassadors, who have returned from proven himself to be responsible, obedient, and thoughtful. speaking with the king of Norway about Fortinbras, are happy Although Polonius treats Laertes as trustworthy when they are to report their visit as successful. face to face, he feels the need to check up on him, which in itself may be innocent enough, but he goes so far as to "Old Norway," they say, has commanded Fortinbras to suggest that Reynaldo "lay slight sullies" against Laertes to abandon any acts of force against Denmark. Fortinbras has dredge information out of various sources. Further, it's an vowed obedience to his uncle and has turned his attention to example of dramatic irony that Polonius, ever mindful of his Poland, where he originally told his uncle he was going. reputation, is so casual about the idea of damaging his Voltemand notes that Fortinbras has asked permission for him son's—and uses deception to find the truth. In Act 1, Scene 3, and his men to pass through Denmark en route to Poland. Polonius had warned Ophelia about maintaining her reputation. He is concerned that if her reputation is damaged, it will also As the ambassadors exit, Polonius tells Claudius and Gertrude harm his status. he thinks Hamlet's love for Ophelia is driving him mad. Polonius then reads them a letter sent from Hamlet to Ophelia, in which The second event in this scene—Ophelia relaying to Polonius he proclaims his love for her. Together, Polonius, Claudius, and the strange encounter she had with Hamlet—also plays on Gertrude decide to lay a trap, orchestrating a meeting between truth versus deception, or appearance versus reality. The Hamlet and Ophelia and watching from afar. audience knows from what Hamlet tells Horatio and the soldiers in Act 1, Scene 5 that he may need to appear mad. If Hamlet meets Polonius while walking in the hall. They talk a we assume that Hamlet's odd behavior in the remainder of the little, with Hamlet verbally sparring in clever if not chaotic play is the result of cunning intelligence and not madness, then circles around the older man. Polonius, taking this as evidence he is appearing in a way that is untruthful. Ophelia, for her part, of the prince's madness, excuses himself to go in search of Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Scene Summaries 15 Ophelia and plan a "chance" meeting. change the course of everything for the people of Elsinore. The presence of the players and Hamlet's familiarity with them Rosencrantz and Guildenstern appear, and Hamlet asks also gives audiences another view of Hamlet. Throughout the several times what brings them to Elsinore. Although they try play, the information we glean from his various to evade his questions, Hamlet quickly figures out that they've interactions—with the soldiers and Horatio early on, with the been sent to spy on him. The one good bit of information they players here and into Act 3, and with even the gravediggers in give Hamlet is that a company of players has come to Elsinore. Act 5—gives us a well-rounded character by the end of the play. With some excitement, Hamlet greets the players. Hamlet arranges for them to perform The Murder of Gonzago in the As this scene closes, the presence of the company of actors court the following night—and to incorporate some lines he will also provides fodder for Hamlet to use against himself and his give them. Once Hamlet is alone, he speaks aloud, berating tendency to overthink. Contrasting himself with actors who can himself for his lack of action with the task the ghost has given call up passion and tears out of a fictitious motivation, Hamlet him. He calls himself a coward and a villain, railing in his grief. condemns his lack of action in avenging his father, calling Then, pulling himself together, he muses aloud about his plan himself a "dully and muddy-mettled rascal," chiding himself for to use the play—augmented with lines he will write—as a his inability to "say nothing!" means to probe Claudius's conscience. Hamlet is convinced that if Claudius reacts guiltily, it will prove that the ghost is a Thematically, this scene has many instances that tap into the noble spirit and not a devil come to trick him. themes of truth versus deception and madness. The very presence of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern oozes Analysis deception. They are—or were—Hamlet's friends, but from the moment they arrive in Elsinore they act as Claudius's This scene is long, rich, and loaded with action. Claudius and spies, forsaking their loyalty to the prince for the favor of Gertrude try to delve more deeply into Hamlet's state of mind. the king. While Gertrude's motives are almost certainly caring and Claudius's motivation in bringing Rosencrantz and honorable, the audience may suspect that Claudius's motives Guildenstern to Elsinore is a far cry from Gertrude's. are anything but. The dubious use of spies again comes into Although he pretends that he wants to help Hamlet, play; they bring in Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, old friends of Claudius is actually looking to find out what Hamlet knows in the prince, who will rely on their long-standing relationship with order to stay one step ahead of him. Hamlet to ferret out the information the king and queen desire. The company of players—some of the only people or groups in the play who are not hiding something—are, in an example In this scene, too, we see the ambassadors return from of dramatic irony, built around the idea of reality versus Norway. This subplot, although it doesn't consume a significant appearance/truth versus deception. The basis of theater is amount of stage time, does bring Fortinbras into the play. The a suspension of disbelief—a willingness to believe what one young man becomes a foil for Hamlet; the contrast of their is presented—and that idea, set into the middle of this play styles—Fortinbras is a man of action compared to the deep- so fraught with deception, shines a light on all of the other thinking Hamlet—becomes apparent, even to Hamlet. The few examples of play acting around it. The final line in this scene times we see Fortinbras or hear of him not only brings that to foreshadows the importance of this company being here in mind for the audience, but it also causes Hamlet to look at Elsinore at this time, with Hamlet saying, "The play's the himself and sometimes recommit to the task the ghost has thing wherein I'll catch the conscience of the King." assigned him. The first evidence of Hamlet showing false signs of madness, or an "antic disposition," appears in this scene. The company of actors comes to Elsinore in this scene, Although in the previous scene (Act 2, Scene 1) there is prompting the opportunity for a play within a play and for indication of his strange behavior and appearance from Hamlet's further development. He now is plotting a way to Ophelia's account, his interaction with Polonius, and then cause Claudius to divulge his guilt through his reaction to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, gives a firsthand view. Hamlet's play within a play. Hamlet's revision of the play will Hamlet talks in riddles, such as when he calls Polonius a Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Scene Summaries 16 "fishmonger." does say that madness should not go unchecked. He decides to send Hamlet to England, away from the stress of Denmark. This scene also examines the theme of thought versus action, Polonius agrees that sending him abroad is the best course, brought up by the discussion around Fortinbras and Norway, but also suggests trying one last idea: sending the queen to which paints young Fortinbras as a man of action to Hamlet's speak with Hamlet after the play that evening, while he man of thought as well as Hamlet's comparison of himself to (Polonius) hides nearby to witness the conversation. Claudius the players. consents. Act 3, Scene 1 Analysis This scene contains Hamlet's "to be, or not to be" soliloquy, Summary which continues as one of literature's most-quoted lines—and it captures the essence of both this scene and the entire play. Claudius and Gertrude interrogate Rosencrantz and When Hamlet says those lines as part of a longer soliloquy, he Guildenstern about their discussion with Hamlet. The men have is at his most sorrowful and weary. With these words, Hamlet little to report except that the company of players who arrived contemplates how a person deals with what he calls a "weary, shortly after they did seemed to have interested and pleased stale, flat, and unprofitable" world. While many audiences take the prince, and that he has directed them to perform for the this passage as giving voice to a struggle between suicide and court this evening. Claudius sends Rosencrantz and existence, another interpretation suggests this is Hamlet's Guildenstern to watch the prince and encourage him in this dilemma with living in a way that is true to oneself or not. endeavor. The notion of living true to oneself fits nicely into the truth When they leave, Claudius sends Gertrude off so that he, versus deception theme. Polonius, and Ophelia can plan the "chance" meeting between From their initial appearance, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Ophelia and Hamlet. Through this staged meeting, Claudius are doing anything but living truthfully. They have so fully and Polonius hope to test Polonius's thought that it is Hamlet's aligned themselves with Claudius, it is as if they forgot the love for Ophelia that is so distracting him. They instruct basis of what brought them here: their friendship with Hamlet. Ophelia to stroll the hall, seemingly absorbed in a book, while they hide nearby to watch and listen. Likewise, almost everything Claudius and Polonius do is based on deceit. The ability to act from an honest motive—to be true Hamlet eventually appears, lost in his thoughts and apparently to themselves or to the greater good—seems to have escaped contemplating suicide. Catching sight of Ophelia, he interrupts both politicians a long time ago. Although Polonius uses deceit his thoughts to speak with her. Ophelia tries to return some to protect his appearance and good standing, by the end of the gifts he gave her, but, suspicious of her motives, he denies they play, his dishonesty has contributed in a bigger way. are from him. He further denies that he loved her, which serves to bewilder and wound Ophelia. The two have an impassioned For instance, his meddling in the relationship between Hamlet discussion, reeling in confusion and a mutual feeling of and Ophelia was primarily motivated by how Ophelia's actions betrayal. Hamlet orders her to a nunnery and leaves. might affect his reputation. He didn't stop to consider her reputation or Hamlet and Ophelia's feelings for each other. Claudius and Polonius come to Ophelia's side, shocked by what they have witnessed. Polonius insists Hamlet's love for While this interference doesn't seem of great consequence at Ophelia—love that Polonius made her refuse—is at the root of first, it actually contributes to Hamlet's deepening feelings of the prince's madness. Claudius, already beginning to show a isolation and sorrow and Ophelia's emotional breakdown. guilty conscience as an earlier aside suggests, is now Claudius, meanwhile, has abandoned truth; it is a challenge to convinced that Hamlet is brooding on something think of an action he takes that is honest—short of the bigger—something that could be dangerous to his position. discussion he had with himself about seeking pardon for his sin Although he initially refutes the idea that Hamlet is mad, he if he retains the profits of them. Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Scene Summaries 17 Even Ophelia is coerced away from being true to herself, honest ghost. With the revised play, he intends to present a although if we consider the time, society, and, most especially, scene that mimics the details of King Hamlet's death. He hopes position that each of the sexes held—not to mention Ophelia's that with art mimicking reality, he will catch Claudius in his guilt. youth and apparent naïveté—her choices can be seen as less Hamlet does not want to seek revenge until he is sure of the dishonest than compliant to men of authority around her. ghost's honesty. Thematically, this scene is rich. The play within the play, Act 3, Scene 2 Hamlet's antics throughout the play, the pressure on Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to trick Hamlet—all of these elements support the theme of truth versus deception (or, in this case, appearance versus reality). This notion is particularly Summary clear when the players reenact the scene of King Hamlet's death in the garden. When Claudius sees his deed played out Hamlet coaches the actors in anticipation of the performance so publicly, one can only imagine how the lines between reality they are about to give for Claudius, Gertrude, and the rest of and appearance blur for him. the court. As the players leave the prince to ready themselves, Polonius, Rosencrantz, and Guildenstern enter, announcing The theme of madness—or feigned madness—is never far that the king and queen will join them shortly. Hamlet sends the behind the theme of truth versus deception in Hamlet. The two three of them off to hurry the players just as Horatio arrives. themes are almost inseparable. Interestingly, the king's behavior as the murder scene plays out becomes frantic, and Hamlet tells Horatio of his plan to use The Mousetrap—his he bolts from the hall in a way that could be construed as mad. version of The Murder of Gonzago—to catch the king off guard. This is the beginning of a downward spiral for Claudius—one in He further reports that he has amended the presentation so which his deeds come to light, his cool demeanor slips, and his that one scene re-creates what the ghost told him to be the moves become more reactive than proactive. circumstances of his father's murder. Most importantly, Hamlet instructs Horatio to watch the king's reaction. Hamlet is an interesting study in this scene. At the opening of the scene directing the players, he is masterful and in control, As the play unfolds, Hamlet's additions to the original piece comfortable in the direction he is giving and displaying very make for a strong, disturbing performance. It becomes too little antic disposition. Only when he goes into the hall where much for Claudius, who leaps to his feet and leaves. In the the play is to be performed does he again begin talking in the ensuing confusion, the play is halted, and all leave but Hamlet wild, witty, uncontrolled way that has caused people to think he and Horatio, who recap what they've just seen. is mad. And in the confines of the theater, Hamlet's madness gives him the freedom to sound out those around him, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern enter, telling Hamlet that the especially Claudius, to his advantage. queen wishes to see him. They go around and around with Hamlet, trying to convince him to go to the queen. They are Perhaps most interesting to this scene is the consideration of joined by Polonius, who speaks to Hamlet as if he is humoring a the play within the play—and specifically Claudius's panicked fool. They rouse Hamlet's anger, and he sends them off with reaction to the climax of the play. Claudius's reaction to the word that he will join Gertrude soon. Left to his own thoughts, murder scene is certainly a turning point for Hamlet, who is Hamlet's resolve to kill Claudius rises again, even as he plans now convinced of Claudius's guilt. to visit Gertrude. Analysis Act 3, Scene 3 One of the significant points of this scene is Hamlet asking the theater troupe to perform a specific play with revisions he wrote for them. At the outset of this scene, Hamlet is still deliberating the ghost's motivation—whether it's a demon or an Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Scene Summaries 18 realizing the futility of what he is doing. Summary Another fascinating moment in this scene is when Hamlet, en This scene takes place the same evening as the production of route to his mother's chamber, comes upon Claudius The Murder of Gonzago. After everyone has dispersed from attempting prayer. Hamlet realizes this could be his moment the hall where the play was performed, Rosencrantz and for revenge. He hesitates, fearing that killing Claudius while Guildenstern meet with Claudius. Claudius tells them that he's engaged in a conversation with God will send his soul Hamlet, being dangerous in his madness, must be taken away straight to heaven rather than hell. Hamlet recalls that Claudius to England for everyone's safety. Rosencrantz and did not give his father that benefit and so puts up his sword Guildenstern accept the assignment and leave to prepare. and continues to Gertrude's chambers. Some critics point to this as just another example of Hamlet's inability to act; Polonius comes to Claudius, reporting that Hamlet is headed to Hamlet's refusal to kill Claudius in prayer is just another see Gertrude in her chambers. Polonius hurries off to hide excuse. somewhere in the vicinity so that he may observe the interaction between mother and son. Left alone, Claudius contemplates the murder that audiences Act 3, Scene 4 now know he committed. In a soliloquy, he talks about seeking forgiveness for his sin and praying over it—and he wonders about being pardoned for it if he retains all the power he Summary gained in committing it. From his speech, it appears Claudius wants to be pardoned for his deed but not if getting pardoned This scene also takes place on the night of the production of means giving up crown and queen. The Murder of Gonzago in which Hamlet has tried to prove to himself that Claudius has killed his father. In the queen's Hamlet, en route to see his mother, finds Claudius attempting chambers, Polonius instructs Gertrude on speaking with to pray. He momentarily considers killing the king then and Hamlet and hides himself behind a tapestry before Hamlet there but realizes—according to beliefs of the time—that if he enters. were to kill Claudius while in prayer and seeking repentance (which he thinks Claudius is)—he would inadvertently send him When Hamlet arrives, he and Gertrude begin talking, with straight to heaven. With that, he moves on to find his mother. Hamlet verbally sparring and growing angry with her. His behavior frightens Gertrude, and she cries out. Polonius cries out in anger from his hiding spot. In response, Hamlet shouts Analysis that he hears a rat and stabs Polonius through the tapestry, killing him. This scene gives the audience deeper knowledge about Claudius. From his plans to have Hamlet sent to England, to his As Hamlet pulls aside the tapestry to find Polonius, both he and continued scheming with Polonius, to his confession of the Gertrude are hysterical. She is terrified and filled with sorrow murder when he is alone, Claudius's character inches more and for Polonius; Hamlet rages at Gertrude with all the thoughts more into the light of day—finally appearing as he is: guilty, that have been festering in his brain, including the ideas that scheming, and intent on retaining his newly captured position Claudius killed King Hamlet and, worse yet, that she may have and power. been part of the scheme to kill his father. Particularly interesting is Claudius's attempt at prayer. With In the chaos of their exchange, the ghost appears. He tells possibly his last bit of inner goodness, he wonders if it is Hamlet he has returned both to put him back on task and to possible to be forgiven for his deed if he is still in possession of remind him to leave his mother alone. As Hamlet responds to the rewards gained from it. Clearly he has no intention of giving the ghost, it becomes clear Gertrude neither sees nor hears up any of it; the power that comes with the trappings is too the spirit, and the exchange further convinces her of his great, and it overwhelms any goodness left inside him. "My madness. Hamlet reminds Gertrude he is being banished to words fly up, my thoughts remain below," he concludes at last, England, and that he knows she has hired Rosencrantz and Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Scene Summaries 19 Guildenstern to spy on him. He leaves her, dragging Polonius's body with him. Summary King Claudius and Queen Gertrude, along with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, come together once again in Elsinore Castle. Analysis Gertrude dismisses Rosencrantz and Guildenstern so that she may tell Claudius of her meeting with Hamlet. Comparing the For some audiences, the killing of Polonius is arguably another prince's madness with the wild power of the wind and the sea point of climax. Tension and emotions certainly remain high vying to see which is mightier, Gertrude tells Claudius of all after the play-within-a-play murder scene. Audiences are that transpired between them, including how Hamlet killed relieved to know the truth, as is Hamlet, and they're also privy Polonius. to Claudius's confession in the previous scene. Claudius says Hamlet must be sent away at once, and In his mother's chambers, Hamlet is driven both by rage and by immediately summons Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. He tells a poignant curiosity. He confronts Gertrude to voice his beliefs them Hamlet has slain Polonius, asks them to find Hamlet, and about his father's murder and question Gertrude's role in it. instructs them to bring Polonius's body to the chapel. Claudius Before they get into the heat of their discussion, however, she and Gertrude leave to inform their closest supporters, hoping cries out, frightened by Hamlet's wild and impassioned state. they can control the fallout. This causes Polonius to react—and leads Hamlet to slay him—thinking he has surprised the "rat" Claudius. This is truly a point of no return for Hamlet, and the moment sets off its own chain of events. Analysis The exchange between Hamlet and Gertrude is enough to Gertrude's transition from the end of the last scene to the roust the ghost for a final time—reminding Hamlet not to harm beginning of this one is notable. At the end of Act 3, she was Gertrude. Gertrude, meanwhile, is unable to see or hear the spent, having watched in terror as Hamlet raged about her, ghost, and is driven to believe that Hamlet is truly mad. This is killing Polonius, talking with a ghost that she suspects was a an interesting moment as well, leaving the audience wondering hallucination of his addled brain, then calmly leaving with a about the significance of the ghost's injunction. Does it suggest body in tow. Despite all that Hamlet has told her, however, she Gertrude's innocence of any involvement? Is it suggestive of assumes him mad and we find her at the opening of this scene the ghost's (King Hamlet's) feelings for the queen? Regardless, with Claudius, emotions under control, and reporting on it all. the ghost is able to calm down Hamlet. Claudius forces himself to remain calm as Gertrude tells him of The scene closes with a somewhat more rational conversation the death of Polonius and Hamlet's seemingly mad ramblings. between mother and son, with Gertrude even asking what she He seizes on the incident as further reason to send Hamlet should do in light of what Hamlet has told her. Although Hamlet away. Beyond putting that plan in motion, however, Claudius's still cannot determine whether Gertrude bears any guilt for his major concern is damage control. After Rosencrantz and father's death, he warns her away from Claudius and reminds Guildenstern go in search of Hamlet, preparing to sail that her that he is off to England. Bidding her goodnight, he leaves, night, Claudius suggests that he and Gertrude seek out their dragging Polonius's body with him. Despite their conversation wisest friends and tell them what has happened. He is and Hamlet's warnings to protect her, Gertrude still believes he convinced that putting their spin (or interpretation) on the is mad. news will prevent Hamlet's crime from staining their reputation. As always, Claudius remains concerned with appearances just as Polonius was. Act 4, Scene 1 Copyright © 2019 Course Hero, Inc. Hamlet Study Guide Scene Summaries 20 must set sail tonight. Act 4, Scene 2 Once alone, Claudius reveals the papers he has sent with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern ordering Hamlet's death. Summary In a passageway somewhere in Elsinore castle, Rosencrantz Analysis and Guildenstern find Hamlet. They insist he tell them where Polonius's body is so they can take it to the chapel, but he at The more opportunities audiences have to see Claudius on his once runs verbal circles around them and taunts them. When own, the more information is provided about the inner workings he won't tell them where the body is, they demand he go with of his brain. As this scene opens, Claudius expounds on them to the king. He agrees to go with them, and then sprints Hamlet's slaying of Polonius as an excellent rationale for away, as if in a game of hide-and-seek. sending him abroad. Oddly, something about Claudius's use of the royal "we" and the points he is making to himself come across as someone desperately seeking to regain control of a Analysis situation. Shakespeare, ever in command, may certainly have intended his speech to straddle the line between sanity and Act 4, Scene 2 is short; the action is fast-moving now and madness. Shakespeare uses the short, quick scenes to keep the Hamlet's banter with Rosencrantz, Guildenstern, and Claudius excitement rolling. Hamlet plays his madness to the fru