Act by Act Overview

Question 1

Act 1

Answer 1

The King (Old Hamlet) has died, Claudius succeeds him and Hamlet is still mourning. The ghost appears and asks to be avenged. Ophelia is told by Laertes and Polonius not to trust Hamlet.

Question 2

Act 2

Answer 2

King Claudius asks Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to spy on Hamlet. Polonius suggests that Hamlet’s madness is just his upset over Ophelia not committing to a relationship, so he organises to spy on them. Hamlet sees the players and organises the mousetrap.

Question 3

Act 3

Answer 3

Claudius talks about guilt. To be or not to be soliloquy. Hamlet understands the conspiracy so gets angry with Ophelia. Hamlet asks Horatio to watch Hamlet during the play. Claudius leaves during the play and plans to send Hamlet away. Hamlet gets angry with Gertrude and kills Polonius by mistake, thinking it was Claudius. The ghost reappears.

Question 4

Act 4

Answer 4

Hamlet sees Fortinbras’ army. Ophelia’s madness is explored. Horatio hears of Hamlet’s escape. Claudius reunites with Laertes to take down Hamlet - Laertes wants revenge for the death of his father.

Question 5

Act 5

Answer 5

Graveyard scene. Ophelia is fought over by Hamlet and Laertes. They decide to fence. All die but Horatio - Fortinbras takes over as King.