Death, Mortality, and the Afterlife

Question 1

What quote shows Hamlet contemplating the uncertainty of death?

Answer 1

“To be, or not to be: that is the question.”

Question 2

What does Hamlet say about the fear of the afterlife?

Answer 2

“The dread of something after death, the undiscover’d country from whose bourn no traveller returns.”

Question 3

What line reflects the theme of death as a leveller?

Answer 3

“Imperious Caesar, dead and turned to clay.”

Question 4

What does the Ghost say about the horrors of death?

Answer 4

“I am thy father’s spirit, doom’d for a certain term to walk the night.”

Question 5

What quote captures Hamlet’s reflection on physical decay?

Answer 5

“Alexander died, Alexander was buried, Alexander returneth to dust.”

Question 6

What line expresses the peace and finality of death?

Answer 6

“To die, to sleep—no more.”

Question 7

What quote shows the futility of earthly status in the graveyard scene?

Answer 7

“A fellow of infinite jest, of most excellent fancy.”

Question 8

What does Hamlet say before his death that reflects acceptance?

Answer 8

“The rest is silence.”