Due Friday, October 4th (By the end of the block) - Reflections on "Hamlet" Act III

Overview and Directions:  I would like to give you the opportunity to engage with the text.

1)  Classwork - In groups of no more that four, take parts and read the Hamlet, Act III aloud.  We already read much of it together, so you should be experimenting with voice movement and block (staging). On your feet!  Read the text as many times as you can to master the lines and explore the mysteries.

2)  Homework - Compose a comprehensive blog response using the study questions in your response. Answer at least one question from each scene, along with one of the review questions.  In short, ANSWER FIVE OF THE QUESTIONS BELOW.  Use direct quotations from the text.  I look forward to your responses.

Study Questions for Act III

Scene 1

1. According to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, how has Hamlet received their inquiries?
2. Describe Polonius’ and Claudius’ plan.
3. Identify and explain one of the metaphors Hamlet uses in his famous “To be or not to be” soliloquy.
4. According to Hamlet, why don’t men kill themselves?
5. What does Hamlet mean when he says, “Those that are married already/all but one shall live”?
6. Where does Claudius want to send Hamlet and why?
7. Explain the irony in Claudius’ line: “Madness in great ones must not unwatched go.”

Scene 2

1. What does Hamlet ask Horatio to do during the “play?”
2. If Claudius reveals no guilt, what conclusion will Hamlet make?
3. How does Hamlet treat Ophelia before the “play” begins?
4. What correction does Ophelia make when Hamlet speaks of his father’s death?
5. What does Gertrude mean when she says: “The lady doth protest too much” and why would Hamlet think this is significant?
6. What does Hamlet call the “play?”
7. How does Claudius react to the play?
8. What is Hamlet’s reaction to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern’s questions?
9. Why does Hamlet say, “I will speak daggers to her, but use none.”

Scene 3

1. What is Polonius’ plan now?
2. Name the allusion in Claudius’ soliloquy.
3. What does Claudius reveal about himself in his soliloquy?
4. Why can’t Claudius ask for forgiveness?
5. Why doesn’t Hamlet kill Claudius?

Scene 4

1. How does Hamlet treat his mother?
2. Who does Hamlet think is behind the curtain?
3. What does the ghost remind Hamlet about?
4. Hamlet gives Gertrude some specific advice—what is it?
5. Explain the pun in Hamlet’s last line, “This man shall set me packing.”

Review

1. Has Hamlet reached the point of no return? Why?
2. King Claudius has resolved to do what (besides send Hamlet to England)? What does this reveal about his character?