polonius Flashcards
“This above all, to thine own self be true”
“Marry ill teach you”
“Do not believe his vows, for they are brokers”
“Neither a borrower nor a lender be: for loan oft loses both itself and friend”
What does Polonius say to Gertrude about Hamlet in Act 3, Scene 1?
Polonius describes Hamlet’s behavior as being ‘mad’ but suggests it is due to his love for Ophelia.
Fill in the blank: Polonius believes that Hamlet’s madness is caused by his __________ for Ophelia.
love
True or False: Polonius is supportive of Ophelia’s relationship with Hamlet.
False
What advice does Polonius give to Ophelia regarding Hamlet?
He advises her to stay away from Hamlet and to reject his advances.
In Act 3, Scene 2, what does Polonius say about the play’s purpose?
Polonius believes the play will help determine whether Hamlet’s madness is genuine.
What is Polonius’s plan to confirm his suspicions about Hamlet’s love for Ophelia?
He plans to eavesdrop on a conversation between Hamlet and Ophelia.
What does Polonius mean when he says, ‘Though this be madness, yet there is method in’t’?
He suggests that Hamlet’s seemingly irrational behavior has a purpose or logic behind it.
What does Polonius advise the King and Queen to do regarding Hamlet?
He advises them to observe Hamlet’s behavior closely to understand his state of mind.
In Act 3, Scene 1, what metaphor does Polonius use to describe Hamlet’s love for Ophelia?
He compares it to a form of madness.
What does Polonius say to the King about Hamlet’s behavior in Act 3, Scene 1?
He suggests that Hamlet’s actions are a reflection of his love for Ophelia.
How does Polonius describe the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia in Act 3, Scene 2?
He describes it as complex and fraught with emotional turmoil.
What does Polonius tell the Queen about her son Hamlet?
He states that Hamlet is mad and that it stems from his love for Ophelia.
True or False: Polonius is portrayed as a wise and insightful character throughout the play.
False
What does Polonius believe about the nature of love in Act 3?
He believes that love can lead to madness.
What is Polonius’s reaction to Hamlet’s behavior during the play within the play?
He is concerned and believes it confirms his suspicions about Hamlet’s madness.
Fill in the blank: Polonius often uses __________ to convey his thoughts and observations.
metaphors
What does Polonius advise the King to do about Hamlet’s relationship with Ophelia?
He advises the King to keep a close watch on Hamlet.
How does Polonius view the role of appearance versus reality?
He often emphasizes that appearances can be deceiving.
In Act 3, Scene 2, what does Polonius hope to achieve by spying on Hamlet and Ophelia?
He hopes to uncover the truth about Hamlet’s feelings.
What does Polonius say about the nature of madness in relation to Hamlet?
He believes there is a method to Hamlet’s madness, indicating some rationality.
What is Polonius’s fate by the end of the play?
He is killed by Hamlet, mistaking him for the King.
True or False: Polonius’s character is often seen as a fool or a pawn in the larger political game.
True
What does Polonius’s death symbolize in the context of the play?
It symbolizes the tragic consequences of espionage and manipulation.
How does Polonius’s advice to Laertes reflect his character traits?
His advice is pragmatic and reflects his tendency to be controlling and overprotective.
