Hamlet Flashcards
Who does the ghost represent?
Old Hamlet. The protagonist’s dead father.
What festive news is announced regarding Claudius?
He will be marrying Gertrude (Old Hamlet’s wife) and taking the throne.
How does Hamlet feel in the beginning of the play?
He is still mourning, and is very upset of his mother’s marriage, since it is to Claudius, and so soon after his father’s death.
What does Claudius forbid Hamlet to do?
Go to school in Wittenberg.
What is the relationship between Polonius, Laertes, and Ophelia?
Polonius is the father of Laertes and treats him as an equal. Ophelia is his daughter, but he treats her as a lesser being.
Does Laertes think Ophelia should stay with Hamlet?
No. He thinks young love doesn’t last, and they should separate. Polonius feels the same way and forbids them from seeing each other.
What does the ghost instruct Hamlet to do?
Forgive his mother, and take revenge on Claudius for killing him.
Why does Polonius think Hamlet is mad?
Ophelia’s rejection of his love.
Why does the king and queen send for Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?
To spy on Hamlet and figure out why he is mad. He quickly catches onto this.
What is Hamlet’s trap for Claudius?
He will put on a play resembling Old Hamlet’s murder, to catch Claudius’s conscience.
Does Hamlet trust Horatio?
Yes. They are good friends.
Does the play work?
Yes. Claudius runs away, and goes to his chapel to pray for forgiveness. Hamlet meets him there and confronts him, but does not kill him, because if he did, Claudius would go to heaven.
Who hides behind the arras, and gets killed?
Polonius
Is Hamlet alright with going to England?
Yes. He knows the plan.
What emotions do Fortinbras and his Captain stir in him?
The desire to commit revenge that he was lacking.
