GRADE 12 ENGLISH

LITERATURE 2024
memo
 WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S

HAMLET

CONTEXTUAL QUESTIONS

ACT 1

1.By referring to the use of diction and imagery, discuss how Shakespeare creates an atmosphere of
fear and tension in the opening scene.(3)

Barnado is jumpy as he asks who is there and Francisco should be asking as he is the guard
on duty.

The soldiers patrolling indicates that Denmark is under threat. Francisco is “sick at heart”.
Marcellus speaks about the ‘dreaded sight’.

2.Who is Horatio and what is your first impression of him?(2)

Hamlet’s best friend, he is a scholar which is why B & M have asked him to come to see the
ghost. They are looking for guidance from him and confirmation of the ghost ‘he may approve
our eyes and speak to it’.They trust him and ask him ‘what think you on’t’. He is sceptical as
he does not believe that B & M saw a ghost, saying it is their ‘fantasy’
3.Why does Horatio think that the ghost will speak to Hamlet even though it refuses to speak to
anyone else?(2)

The ghost looks like the late king, and he thinks that it has a message for Hamlet only as he is
his son.

4.Discuss Hamlet’s reaction to the ghost. What does his reaction tell us about his character?

Hamlet wants to speak to the ghost and when he hears of his father’s murder by his uncle, he
is overwhelmed and vengeful. He promises to avenge his father’s murder and curses his
mother’s frailty. He is searching for clarity. He is intrigued and concerned. He is asking
questions to confirm his suspicions that something is wrong.

5.What does Claudius’ first speech to his courtiers tell us about his character?

(2)

Claudius is diplomatic and mentions grief over his brother’s death; joy over his marriage; he
thanks the courtiers for their support of his marriage and that he is king. Claudius is keen to
show he is fully in control and tries to prevent a war with Fortinbras. This shows us that
Claudius knows how to keep favour and how to cultivate it. He is charismatic and genial –
trying to be a friend to all in order to get support.

6.6.1.Contrast Claudius’ words to Hamlet with those to Laertes. (2)

Laertes: He is open, friendly and generous. “What woulds’t thou have Laertes?” He is happy
to grant him anything

Hamlet: He calls Hamlet ‘son’ (premature). He chides Hamlet for being so miserable and he
says that his mourning for his father is womanly.

He is insincere and merely pretending to care about Hamlet to please his wife. He wants to
keep him close in case Hamlet becomes suspicious of him.

6.2.Why do you think his words are different?(2)

He does not need Laertes as he is his subject. He is hoping that Hamlet will come to accept
him as King and father. Claudius is motivated by lust for Gertrude and the kingdom. Maybe a
subconscious sign of guilt.
7.Examine Hamlet’s first soliloquy.

What do his words reveal about him?

Hamlet is shocked at his mother’s hasty marriage and thinks Claudius is a poor substitute for
his father (inferior). The words Hamlet uses are negative and bitter “incestuous sheets”. He’s
troubled by the events. He is depressed but he knows suicide is against his religion and would
never commit suicide although he acknowledges its appeal. Thinks women are weak and
lustful. Against the church for marrying Claudius and his mother so soon after his father’s
death.

8.Examine the characters of Polonius and Laertes in Scene 3.

How are they similar in thought and action? (3)

They both think that they know better than Ophelia and warn her that her reputation is at risk
because she has been too free with her affections. Polonius feels her behaviour is a bad
reflection on him and orders Ophelia to stop her relationship with Hamlet.

9.Discuss how Hamlet is portrayed as a hero in this act.(2)

He knows something is wrong (perceptive).He is not easily manipulated. Hamlet is grieving

and C & G are not.

10.In Scene 4, Marcellus says “something is rotten in the state of Denmark”.

How does this line echo what Hamlet says earlier?(2)

“All is not well” Full armour – something is wrong.

11.In the fourth scene Shakespeare shows us a very thoughtful Hamlet.

Explain how he does this.(3)

Hamlet calls on the protection of Heaven because he is not sure if the ghost is a ‘spirit of
health’ or ‘goblin damned’. His thoughtful nature is reflected in the questions he asks the
ghost.

12.Account for Hamlet’s change in attitude toward the ghost at the end of Scene 5. (2)
At first Hamlet is sceptical but after interacting with the ghost, he feels sympathy for the ghost
and wants to prove his loyalty by only focussing on avenging his death. However, he still
decides on putting ‘an antic disposition’ on to confirm its story.

13.By carefully referring to the text in Scene 5, discuss whether Hamlet’s reactions can be considered
irrational.(3)

He is not irrational – he is shocked but his gut instinct that something was very wrong is
confirmed. ‘Shock ‘O God’ ‘Hold, hold my heart’

Realisation that his suspicions have been confirmed ‘O my prophetic heart’ Disgust ‘ o most
pernicious woman’ ‘O villain, villain, smiling damned villian’ Determined ‘I have sworn’t”

1.1. Place this passage in context. (3)

Hamlet has returned to Denmark. His father has been buried; his uncle is now the king; his
mother is married to Claudius (his uncle) and Hamlet is overwhelmed with grief.

1.2. Refer to line 1: “A little more than kin, and less than kind.”

Comment on Hamlet’s attitude toward Claudius in this line. (2)

Hamlet is expressing his dislike at Claudius, who is his ‘kin’ as he feels that he is not like him.
It draws attention to Hamlet’s anger towards Claudius.

1.3. Refer to lines 4-9: “Good Hamlet, cast … nature to eternity.”

Discuss the motivation behind Gertrude’s advice to Hamlet. (3)

Gertrude needs/wants Hamlet’s public approval of her marriage – his opinion matters. His
melancholy/sadness is appropriate but makes Gertrude feel uncomfortable because she
married in haste. It highlights the fact that she has not mourned appropriately. She feels some
guilt and tries to say death is part of life.

1.4. Refer to line 10: “Ay, madam, it is common.”

By referring to Hamlet’s tone, discuss what is meant in these lines. (3)

‘Common’ implies that grief is universal/ customary/ usual practice but Hamlet’s tone is
sarcastic which means he implies a derogative meaning for ‘common’ that is disparaging
showing that he thinks less of his mother because she did not mourn appropriately and is
already remarried.

1.5. Refer to lines 13-23: “Seems, madam! … suits of woe.”

1.5.1By making close reference to the diction used, comment on Hamlet’s state of mind. (3)

Hamlet is outraged/annoyed/insulted by his mother’s implication or suggestion that he is

demonstrating outward signs of sorrow that are merely a show. The black clothing ‘inky
cloak’; the sighing ‘forced breath’ and weeping ‘fruitful river’. His repetition of ‘Seems’ shows
his frustration/ irritation; the word ‘not’ tells us that he feels the grief deeply; he speaks of the
grief ‘within which passeth show’.

1.5.2If you were the director of a production of Hamlet, how would you instruct the actor to deliver
these lines? Pay specific attention to body language and tone. Motivate your instructions.(3)

Hamlet needs to use a tone of outrage/ anger, as his grief is genuine. He should throw his
arms out in an expression of disbelief and then lean forward for the last two lines possibly
with his hands on his hips ‘But I (emphasis on I) have that within which passeth show – these
but the trappings(deliver this word through clenched teeth) and the suits of woe’. His hands
could be in fists to show his fury.

1.6. Refer to lines 43-54: “This must be … and our son.”

Explain the irony in what Claudius is saying. (3)

Claudius asks Hamlet to think of him as a father now – Hamlet does not respect or have any
fondness for Claudius. Claudius says Hamlet is ‘immediate to our throne’ but actually Hamlet
should be king. Claudius says Hamlet should stay ‘in the cheer and comfort of our eye’
meanwhile Claudius wants him to stay so that he can see if he is a threat, not out of love and
concern.

ACT 2

1.Discuss what is revealed about Polonius’ character in the first scene of this act. (2)

He is controlling; does not trust Laertes; worries about his son’s reputation and behaviour
and how it reflects on him – he asks Reynaldo to spy on Laertes. He is pompous – rambles.
Likes the sound of his own voice. He is unconcerned about using devious methods to achieve
his purpose. He is unscrupulous. He likes meddling.

2.Account for Ophelia’s agitation in the first scene.(2)

Hamlet visited her in a dishevelled state ‘his doublet all unbraced’ - sighing, staring at her etc.
He is intense and seemingly unhinged which frightens Ophelia.

3.What is revealed about Ophelia by her reaction to Polonius? (2)

She is blindly obedient and a dutiful daughter. She gives her love letters from Hamlet to her
father to read and stays away from Hamlet.

4.Account for Rosencrantz and Guildenstern’s presence at the court.(2)

C & G ask them to find out the reason/ source for Hamlet’s state of mind.

5.Explain how Polonius intends to prove that Hamlet is mad. (2)

Spy on Hamlet and Ophelia while they are talking by hiding behind the arras with Claudius.

6.Hamlet calls Polonius a “fishmonger”. Critically discuss whether this accusation is valid. (3)

This is valid as Polonius is fishing for information. Fishmonger is a euphemism for brothel
keeper (who use women for profit) and Polonius will exploit/use his daughter as bait to get
information about Hamlet. Ophelia must lure Hamlet to a place where C & P can be well hidden
in order to overhear the conversation.

7.Hamlet’s second soliloquy

In your own words, explain Hamlet’s plan to prove Claudius’ guilt. (3)

He has asked a group of actors to perform a play that will include a man being killed in the
same way as his father. He will watch Claudius to see his reaction/ see if he shows guilt.

If Claudius turns pale or reacts, it means he is guilty. If he doesn’t react, it means the Ghost is
the Devil.
8.Account for Hamlet’s reaction to the arrival of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern.

Hamlet is at first pleased to see them, but then Hamlet is suspicious and wants to know the
real reason for their visit.He realises that they are spying on him for G & C.

9.Explain the irony in Polonius’ criticism of the actor’s speech.(2)

Polonious criticises the actor for being too dramatic and flowery, meanwhile Polonious is
verbose (talks more than is needed) and theatrical to a fault.

10.Examine Hamlet’s soliloquy (pg. 491 – 548)

Comment on why Hamlet is so angry with himself.(2)

He feels self-reproach because he has not taken action. He feels he is a coward. The actor gets
really emotional/ passionate (even crying) and he is only acting. Hamlet questions his
commitment to the task as he isn’t able to sum up even half of the passion for his father’s
death. He feels he is the weakest link.

2.1. Explain why Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are in Denmark. (2)

They have been summoned by the king and queen who are ‘worried’ about Hamlet. They are
there to spy on Hamlet and find out the reason for his madness.

2.2. Discuss the irony in Hamlet addressing Rosencrantz and Guildenstern as

“good friends” (line 18). (3)

R & G are not good friends, they are loyal to the king and are not there to support Hamlet but
to spy on him. Hamlet has realised that R & G have been ordered to find the source of his
‘madness’ by his uncle.

2.3. What does the arrival of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern imply about Gertrude

and Claudius?`(2)

They both want to know the source of his ‘madness’ but they have different reasons. Claudius
needs to keep his ‘enemy’ close so that he can take action if necessary and Gertrude feels
guilty about her hasty marriage and wants to do anything to help Hamlet.
2.4. Discuss the significance of Hamlet’s claim that he “cannot reason” (line 37).

(3)

Reason means to argue logically – Hamlet is not taken in by the sudden arrival of his friends,
he knows that they are spies for Claudius. He says he cannot reason or think logically as part
of his antic disposition and as he does not trust them.

2.5. Refer to lines 50-52: “Were you not … come, nay, speak.”

What do these lines reveal about Hamlet’s state of mind at this point in the

play. (3)

He is alert and suspicious of R & G. He trusts no one not even his friends. He has to find out if
Claudius is guilty by himself, which makes the task more difficult. He feels isolated by the
ghost’s demand for revenge. On some level, he wants them to come clean and tell him that
they were sent for by the king.

ACT 3

1.1.1.Explain Hamlet’s treatment of Ophelia.(2)

Hamlet needs to keep the deception of his antic disposition intact, therefore he behaves
weirdly with Ophelia knowing that they are being watched. He may partly be taking out his
frustration with his mother on Ophelia

1.2.Do you think his actions toward Ophelia are justified? Provide a reason for your answer.(3)

Hamlet is treating Ophelia poorly in order to carry off his antic disposition and he is tarring
her with the same brush as Gertrude. This is unfair.

2.“To be or not to be … “
Discuss the meaning of this famous soliloquy. What does Hamlet reveal about himself in these lines?
(3)

He is feeling the weight of the act of revenge that the ghost has asked him to commit. He
considers suicide as a way out but is too afraid of the punishment of hell as it is forbidden by
the church. He also wants to make sure that the ghost is speaking the truth. He feels
overwhelmed, cannot trust anybody and feels guilty for being indecisive.

3.Discuss the differing opinions that Polonius and Claudius have regarding what is wrong with
Hamlet.(3)

Polonius thinks that Hamlet is mad because of Ophelia’s rejection of him. Claudius is more
suspicious and is worried that Hamlet knows of his father’s murder.

4.Does The Mousetrap achieve its intended aims? Justify your answer.(3)

Yes it does because Claudius stands up and demands that the lights go on and then rushes
from the room revealing his guilt.

5.What is Shakespeare satirising in the player’s play?(2)

He is commenting on the hasty marriage (the actor professes great love for her husband
before he dies) and the murder of Hamlet’s father.

6.Explain how Hamlet ridicules Rosencrantz, Guildenstern and Polonius.(2)

Hamlet asks Guildenstern to play a pipe, when he says he cannot, Hamlet tells him it is as
easy as lying; he speaks to Polonius about the shape of a cloud and every shape Hamlet says
it is, Polonius agrees showing his sycophantic/ obsequious nature; he uses plural pronouns
when talking of himself ‘we shall obey…trade with us’ implying R & G are no longer friends
but they are now subjects.

7.Account for Claudius’ altered opinion of Hamlet.(2)

Claudius sees Hamlet as an immediate threat because of the scene in the play mimicking the
murder he has commited.

8.Explain the irony in Hamlet’s refusal to kill Claudius while he is praying.(2)

Hamlet thinks that Claudius is praying and killing him would send him to heaven, but he is
actually not praying as he is not repentant and does not want to give up his ill-gotten gains
(crown, wife, power)

9.Discuss the importance of the changes in attitude and behaviour that take place in both Hamlet and
Gertrude at the end of this act.(3)

Gertrude thinks Hamlet is really crazy and Hamlet has made Gertrude see the extent of the sin
within herself. Hamlet is disgusted by his mother and Claudius and is distraught at seeing the
ghost.

3.1. Account for Hamlet’s treatment of Ophelia. (3)

Ophelia has returned the gifts and letters that Hamlet gave her, on the instruction of her father.
Hamlet knows this and knows that Ophelia is reporting to her father on Hamlet’s behaviour.
This is part of his plan to act ‘mad’ so that he can find out if the ghost is telling him the truth.

3.2. Refer to lines 36-38: “I have heard … make yourselves another.”

3.2.1Account for Hamlet’s attitude toward women. (3)

Hamlet is disillusioned about women due to his mother’s hasty marriage to Claudius and
because she is overtly affectionate to Claudius in the same way as she was with Hamlet’s
father. This makes Hamlet question the authenticity of her love and he sees all women as
fickle, disloyal and weak.

3.2.2If you were the director of a production of Hamlet, how would you instruct the actor to deliver
these lines? Pay specific attention to body language and tone. Motivate your instructions.(3)

Hamlet could bend over Ophelia in an intimidating way with his hands on his hips to show
disgust. His tone could be sneering and belittling as he is saying that women trick men.

3.3. Refer to lines 45-56: “O, what a … see what I see!”

By referring to the diction, comment on Ophelia’s feelings toward Hamlet. (3)

Ophelia is particularly horrified as Hamlet is the heir to the throne of Denmark and should
represent the embodiment of the state. ‘the expectancy and “rose” of the fair state’. The rose
also symbolises youth and beauty. If he is mad, then this means chaos and disorder for
Denmark. She speaks about his ‘noble’ mind; refers to him as the ‘glass’ of fashion; the
‘mould’ of form – to her he is the image of youthful perfection. She is saddened by the
apparent deterioration in his mental state.

3.4. Does Claudius agree with Polonius about Hamlet’s madness? Quote from the

extract to support your answer. (3)

Claudius feels there is more to it than love-sickness. He says “Love! his affections do not that
way tend”. His final comment “Madness in great ones must not unwatch'd go” indicates that
he thinks Hamlet is a danger to his position as king.

3.5. Comment on the accuracy of Claudius’s claim that “Madness in great ones

must not unwatch’d go.” (line 83). (2)This is accurate as we know that Hamlet is pretending to be
mad and has been ordered by the ghost to avenge his father’s murder.

3.6. Refer to lines 1-2: “O good Horatio … Didst perceive?”

By referring to Hamlet’s tone, explain his reaction in these lines. (3)

Hamlet’s tone is one of excitement and triumph as he has confirmed Claudius’s guilt and now
can move forward and avenge his father. He is affirming with Horatio that he observed the
same reaction and agrees with his conclusion.

3.7. Account for Claudius being “with choler” (line 17). (2)

Choler means anger – Claudius is angry/upset because he has realised that Hamlet knows
that he murdered his brother and that he will have to get rid of the threat before Hamlet gets
rid of him.

3.8. Explain why Gertrude wishes to see Hamlet. (2)

It has been agreed before the play that Gertrude would tell Hamlet to meet with her and that
Polonius would spy on the conversation as Polonius says that mothers are biased towards
their children. Gertrude is going to try to find out the reasons behind his behaviour (madness).
Claudius has stormed out of the play and Gertrude is worried about this. She knows that
Hamlet has something to do with it. She wants Hamlet to apologise which shows her lack of
understanding by suggesting that Hamlet cares about Claudius’s feelings.
3.9. What is the ultimate consequence of this meeting? (3)

After Hamlet kills Polonius, he drags the body off; Gertrude tells Claudius who convinces her
that it is in Hamlet’s best interests to send him to England; Claudius orders R & G to find him
and escort Hamlet on the ship; Claudius writes a note to the king of England to execute
Hamlet thereby getting rid of the threat.

ACT 4

1.Why is Claudius afraid to have Hamlet arrested?(2)

Hamlet is popular and has many supporters. If H is arrested it will reflect badly on Claudius
and turn people against him.

2.Explain what Claudius does instead.(2)

He convinces Gertrue that sending Hamlet to England until things have died down is the best
course of action. He give R & G a letter asking the king of England to kill Hamlet upon his
arrival in England.

3.Is Hamlet aware of Claudius’ intentions? Provide a reason for your answer.(2)

Hamlet is suspicious which is why he reads the letter and changes the name so that R & G are
executed instead. Hamlet says that he will trust R & G as if they are ‘adders fanged.’
4.Account for Hamlet’s reaction to Fortinbras’ reason for fighting a war.(2)

Fortinbras is fighting over a scrap of Poland and Hamlet compares the willingness of the
soldiers to die for something so meaningless to himself who seems unable to act but has
much to gain. Their bravery motivates him to take action.

5.Provide a reason for Claudius’ anguish at the beginning of Scene 5.(2)

Ophelia is distraught and desperate because of Polonius’ death.

6.Explain Gertrude’s and Claudius’ reaction to Ophelia.(2)

Gertrude feels guilty because Hamlet killed Polonius and she feels compassion for Ophelia.

Claudius is disturbed by her behaviour and tries to calm her down and appease her.

7.Why is Laertes so angry?(1)

His father is dead and he thinks Claudius has killed him.

8.Discuss how Claudius persuades Laertes to fight Hamlet.(2)

He reveals that it is Hamlet who killed Polonius. He will give Laertes the opportunity of
revenge.

9.Why is Laertes so easy to convince?(1)

He is enraged and lusting for revenge and thus easily manipulated. He is impulsive and hot-
headed.

10.Do you think Laertes is simply a victim of Claudius’ manipulation? Provide a reason for your
answer.(2)

He is not a victim – he wants revenge and Claudius directs him and provides him with a plan.

11.How can Laertes’ plan be considered ironic?(2)

Laertes is going to put poison on the tip of his sword as he doesn’t trust his own
swordsmanship to kill Hamlet.

12.Comment on Claudius’ hypocrisy at the end of Scene 7.(3)

Claudius tells Gertrude that he worked so hard to calm Laertes down but he merely redirected
his revenge onto Hamlet.

4.1. Comment on the accuracy of Gertrude’s claim that Hamlet is “Mad as the sea

and wind.” (line 2). (3)

Gertrude has promised Hamlet that she would confirm that he is genuinely insane, which she
does here. Gertrude ‘softens’ his killing of Polonius by saying that he reacted to a noise and
that he was sorry for what he has done.

However, Hamlet has murdered Polonius and shown little regret over it; yelled accusations and
obscenities at her; Hamlet seems to be talking to someone who isn’t there and he has gone off
dragging Polonius’s body.

4.2. Refer to lines 10-12: “His liberty is … to everyone.”

Discuss the irony in these lines. (3)

Claudius is saying that Hamlet is a danger to all and thus cannot remain at large; however
Claudius has murdered his brother and intends to kill/ get rid of Hamlet so he is actually the
danger.

4.3 Refer to lines 24-28: “O Gertrude, come...countenance and excuse.”

If you were the director of a production of Hamlet, how would you instruct the

actor to deliver these lines? Pay specific attention to body language and tone.

Motivate your instructions.(3)

Claudius is trying to convince Gertrude that this is the best course of action. Claudius should
put his arm around Gertrude’s shoulder and pull her away- there should be an urgency to his
tone as well as being persuasive especially when he says they will ‘excuse’ Hamlet’s
behaviour. He needs to direct her away towards their room or a safer place.
4.4.Explain what Claudius plans to do by “[shipping] him hence” (line 26). (2)

He plans to get the king of England to execute Hamlet upon his arrival in England.

4.5. Account for Hamlet refusing to hand over Polonius’s body. (3)

Hamlet refuses to tell them where Polonius's body because it will make them believe he is
crazy. Only crazy people will do things like that. He is also goading Claudius.

4.6. What is Hamlet implying about Claudius when he agrees with Rosencrantz

that he is a “sponge” (line 54). (3)

When Hamlet says Rosencrantz is a sponge, he is accusing Rosencrantz of doing whatever

Claudius asks him to do. Hamlet is accusing Rosencrantz of being a pushover and a blind
follower. He is implying that Claudius has a different agenda, which is to eliminate the threat of
Hamlet and then when he has what he wants from Rosencrantz, R will be useless to him.

4.6. Account for Laertes’s return to Denmark. (3)

Polonius is dead and has had a hurried burial not befitting someone of his status. Laertes
suspects that Claudius has had a hand in this and has come to challenge him and avenge his
father.

4.7.Why does Claudius believe that they do not need to fear Laertes? (2)

Claudius believes that as he is God appointed God will protect him. This is a strange belief for
him to have since no such ‘hedges’ protected the king he killed – his brother.

4.8.Contrast Laertes’s revenge to that of Hamlet’s. (3)

Both men desire to achieve revenge by killing the man who killed their father. However, the two
men carry out their revenge plot in different ways. Laertes is much more incisive and
hotheaded. Laertes travels directly back to Denmark and marches to the castle to challenge
Claudius. Hamlet is much more of an over thinker and is considered a more decent person
than Laertes. Hamlet first tries to get proof that Claudius is guilty before taking action.

4.9.Discuss how Claudius uses Laertes’s need for vengeance to his advantage.
(3)

King Claudius convinces Laertes that Hamlet is responsible for his father's death. Claudius
manipulates Laertes and convinces him to have a duel with Hamlet. Claudius encourages him
to bide his time and he will make sure that Hamlet dies. Claudius decides to use Laertes to kill
Hamlet and thus avoid being directly involved.

4.10Refer to lines 55-59: “O heat, dry…sister, sweet Ophelia!”

If you were the director of a production of Hamlet, how would you instruct the

actor to deliver these lines? Pay specific attention to body language and tone.

Motivate your instructions.(3)

Laertes could appear to be tearing his hair out in anguish; he could rub his eyes vigorously
and even extend his arms up to heaven; then he could fall to his knees as he remembers how
gentle and sweet his sister was before this madness. His tone should be one of anguish and
then become desperately sad and gentle.

4.11. Refer to lines 61-62: “Is’t it possible … old man’s life?”

By referring to what has happened to Ophelia, account for the comparison

Laertes makes in these lines. `(3)

Laertes is linking his father’s death to Ophelia’s insanity because this happens so soon after.
He thinks her grief has caused this lapse in sanity. He says her wits have followed his father to
the grave – been buried with him.

ACT 5

1.What is the purpose of the gravedigger scene?(2)

Act 4 ends with Ophelia’s suicide and this comic relief relieves the tension.
2.“Alas poor Yorick …”

Explain the significance of this speech.(3)

Yorick’s skull symbolises death, which is Hamlet’s preoccupation. The power and inevitability
of death when actually holding the skull of someone you knew and loved.

3.Refer to lines 270 – 279: “… Swounds, show me what thou’t do …”

By referring to Hamlet’s tone in this speech, account for his feelings toward Laertes.(3)

Hamlet is mocking Laertes. He is saying that he too can be excessive and exaggerated and
jump into her grave theatrically. Hamlet feels frustrated with Laertes performance which he
suspects is just for show.

4.Explain how Claudius takes advantage of the relationship between Hamlet and Laertes.(2)

They are competitive (shown by graveyard scene) so he pits them against each other.

5.Refer to lines 1 – 80.

Explain how Hamlet has changed from the beginning of the play.(3)

Hamlet changes from a helpless man in despair to a determined confident man. When he
compares himself to Fortinbras he sees that he is sitting around not taking action. He realises
his purpose is to avenge his father. ‘O, from this time forth my thoughts be bloody or nothing
worth.’

Shows Hamlet’s determination to finally take revenge and he is no longer scared to do so. He
has gained the confidence that he lost when he heard of his father’s death. He finds his
motivation when he claims ‘That have a father killed, a mother stained’

6.Account for Hamlet’s state of mind before his duel with Laertes. Justify your answer by referring to
the text. (2)

‘But thou wouldst not think how ill all’s here about my heart. But it is no matter’ ‘It is but
foolery, but it is such a kind of gain-giving as perhaps would trouble a woman’ Hamlet knows
that he can beat Laertes. Something is bothering him but he cannot put his finger on it.
7.Explain Claudius’ plan to kill Hamlet.(2)

He has encouraged Laertes to poison the tip of his sword and has put poison in Hamlet’s wine
so he feels he is assured of Hamlet’s death.

8.How does this plan go awry?(2)

The swords are dropped and are mixed up so Laertes is stabbed with his own foil. Gertrude
drinks the poisoned wine meant for Hamlet. Hamlet forces Claudius to drink the rest of the
poisoned wine and stabs him as well. All but Horatio die and he is left to tell the story.

9.Discuss the appropriateness of Fortinbras’ arrival at the end of the play.(2)

Throughout the play, Hamlet’s foil is Fortinbras. Fortinbras’s presence is important at the end
of the play as it shows the downfall of the kingdom, which the ghost has warned Hamlet
about. This proves that if Hamlet had acted immediately and killed Claudius, he could have
saved his kingdom. Fortinbras restores order throughout the kingdom. Hamlet tells Horatio
that Fortinbras should be crowned king. ‘But I bet Fortinbras will win the election to the
Danish crown. He’s got my vote as I die’ Hamlet recognises that Fortinbras is the only one
worthy of the throne.

5.1. What does the Lord mean when he says Hamlet must “play with Laertes” (line

4)? (2)

He is referring to a fencing match between Laertes and Hamlet and asking Hamlet if he will
participate.

5.2. Comment on the accuracy of Horatio’s claim that Hamlet will “lose this wager”

(line 13). (3)

Horatio is warning Hamlet - he has a bad feeling about it and Laertes is considered the
superior fighter. His claim is correct because ultimately Hamlet loses his life because the tip of
the rapier is poisoned. The odds are against him from the start.

5.3. Discuss the irony in Laertes receiving Hamlet’s “love like love” (line 61). (3)
If Laertes were to receive love like love, it implies that he accepts Hamlet’s apology, hoever,
Laertes will not be showing any love, indeed, he is using a rapier that is tipped with poison to
ensure Hamlet’s death. He is deceitful and dishonest. (The foils were light swords blunted
especially for use in fencing competitions. The contestants were not supposed to injure each
other.)

5.4. By referring to events later in the play, discuss how this passage seals the

fate of most of the characters. (3)

The foils are mixed up and Hamlet touches Laertes with the poisoned foil, this causes Laertes
death and he confesses his treachery before he dies.

The queen drinks the poisoned wine meant for Hamlet and dies.

Hamlet is wounded by the poisoned foil and before he dies, makes Claudius drink the
poisoned wine and he hits him with the poisoned foil, thus Claudius is killed. Horatio is left
behind to tell Hamlet’s story and recommend Fortinbras as king.

EXAM-TYPE QUESTIONS
 Place the extract in context.

1.1 Hamlet has returned from university, he is still mourning for his (2)
dad and Horatio and Marcellus have told him of the ghost of his
father on the battlements.

Refer to lines 1 to 3. “It beckons you to go …you alone.”

Account for the behaviour of the ghost in this scene.

1.2
(2)
The Ghost wants to speak to Hamlet alone so that he can reveal
the details of his death.

Why would Marcellus and Horatio be wary about the ghost’s motives.

1.3 They think that the ghost wants to lure him into the sea/ entice (3)
him over a cliff to be dashed on the rocks/ change into the form of
a monster and drive him mad.

Comment on Hamlet’s determination to hear from the ghost.

Hamlet feels that whatever the ghost has to say is his destiny.
1.4 (3)
He is still mourning the loss of his father – if this is his father’s
ghost, there is a reason he is not at peace and Hamlet needs to
know. The ghost is in purgatory.

Account for Marcellus remarking “Something is rotten in the state of

Denmark.’

Marcellus is referring to the perception that there is corruption in

1.5
Denmark. This is because of Claudius taking the throne, marrying (3)
Gertrude and his raucous antics until the early hours, which is the
reason for the trumpets and the two cannon shots. The ghost is
considered to be a bad omen; some unnatural disturbance.
 Refer to lines 1 to 4.

Account for Hamlet’s suspicious attitude to Rosencrantz and

1.6 Guildenstern. (2)

He thinks that they are there under order of the king to spy on him
and report back to the king.

Refer to lines 11 and 16.

Discuss Rosenkrantz and Guildenstern’s reluctance to be honest with

1.7 Hamlet.

They have been ordered to be secretive and to investigate the (2)

cause for Hamlet’s crazy behaviour by the king.

Refer to lines 30 to 38.

By referring to the diction used in these lines, discuss Hamlet’s state of

mind.

He has ‘lost’ all his mirth, which means he is miserable. He has

1.8
‘forgone’ exercise indicating a depressed state. His problems
weigh ‘heavily’ on him so that he does not appreciate nature and (3)
all seems ‘pestilent’ and ‘foul’ to him so he feels everything is
rotten and infected. He has also lost all faith in humankind as
neither man nor woman ‘delights’ him.

Refer to lines 40 to 47.

Critically discuss Hamlet’s comments about man.

1.9
Man is an amazing invention with the capacity to reason; with (3)
unlimited thinking; with admirable shape and movement; angelic
in action and godlike in understanding.
 Account for Claudius’s fear of Hamlet.

A play has been performed in which Hamlet has the players re-
1.10 enact his father’s murder; Claudius now knows that Hamlet (3)
knows the truth. Claudius realises that he needs to do something
about Hamlet, as he is a threat.

Comment on the response of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern.

1.11 They agree to take Hamlet to England as they have started to (2)
think that Hamlet is crazy and that it is their duty to protect the
king from his ‘madness’. Their obedience is to the king.

1.12.1

Discuss Polonius’ motivation for eavesdropping on the conversation

between Hamlet and his mother.

Polonius feels that Hamlet’s ‘madness’ is due to unrequited love

for Ophelia. He is intent on spying on Hamlet in order to get more
information on the reason for his madness.

1.12 (2)
1.12.2

Comment on the consequences of Polonius’s spying.

Polonius dies, Hamlet is sent to England with R & G, Claudius

intends for the king of England to execute Hamlet upon arrival
and his problems will be over.

Refer to line 40.

Discuss the use of allusion in this line.

1.13
(2)
It is a biblical allusion to the first murder of Abel by Cain. He also
killed his brother by poisoning him.

Refer to lines 41 to 46.

‘Though inclination be …And both neglect’

1.14 Explain the dilemma Claudius faces.

Although he feels great guilt he does not want to give up the (3)
crown either therefore he does nothing at all. “and both neglect’

Refer to lines 51 to 53.

‘And what's in prayer ….Or pardon'd being down?’

1.15
In your own words, explain Claudius’ opinion on the use of prayer.
(2)
To keep us from sinning and to bring us forgiveness when we
have sinned.

Refer to lines 60 to 67.

‘In the corrupted currents of this world….To give in evidence.’

Comment on the irony in these words.

1.16
Claudius speaks about this wicked world, where criminals often
(4)
prevail and bribe their way out of consequences for their actions.
Claudius has gotten away with murder and has evaded the
consequence of his actions.

Refer to lines 67 to 74.

‘What then? … of the newborn babe!’

1.17.1 Explain the course of action Claudius decides on.

He decides to pray and try with the help of angels to repent.

1.17 1.17.2 Discuss the consequences of this decision on both Hamlet (2)
and Claudius.

Hamlet sees him praying and has the opportunity to kill him,
however, Hamlet does not kill Claudius because he thinks his soul (3)
would still go to heaven. This allows Claudius to plot against
Hamlet.
 Refer to Claudius’ soliloquy.

Critically discuss what is revealed by his character.

Claudius is not entirely evil as he shows feelings of guilt.

1.18
Although he wants redemption, he is not prepared to give up his (4)
kingdom, wife and wealth which shows a corrupt nature. His
reasoning that prayer is supposed to absolve you of sin
regardless is not justified and he knows that there is no hope as
he will be judged by God. His hope that everything will be okay
shows a naïve look as well as a selfish attitude.
 Refer to lines 1 to 5. “Now must your … pursued my life”

Account for Claudius’s advice to Laertes.

1.19 Claudius convinces Laertes that Hamlet is a threat/ danger to all

citizens therefore he is a common enemy. This allows Claudius to (3)
manipulate the situation in order to get rid of Hamlet in the rigged
duel.

Refer to lines 11 to 26. “O, for two … had aim’d them.”

Comment critically on Claudius’ reasons for not arresting Hamlet for

murder.

1.20 The queen (his mother) is devoted to Hamlet and because

Claudius loves her he wants her to be happy. Hamlet is loved by
(3)
the people of Denmark and they will be suspicious of Claudius
and turn it against him. Thus Claudius is motivated by survival/
self-preservation in this situation.

Refer to lines 28 to 31. “And so have … revenge will come”

Explain Laertes’ reason for wanting ‘vengeance’.

1.21 Hamlet has been harsh with Ophelia and has professed that he
never loved her and rejects her further by saying it is better that
she go to a convent “get thee to a nunnery”. He has killed (3)
Polonius (her father) which has left her heart broken and
depressed.

Refer to lines 32 to 35.

Break not your sleeps …. And think it pastime.

How does this statement reflect Claudius’ state of mind?

1.22
He does not ignore threats to his position and he has already
(2)
plotted to remove the threat (Hamlet) – he does not take it lightly
that Hamlet can destroy his position. He is a man of action and
will respond with force to any threat.

Refer to line 40: “From Hamlet”

 Account for Claudius’s tone in this line.

This means that Hamlet is still alive and Claudius expects him to
1.23 be dead. ‘high and mighty’ is mocking Claudius position

‘naked’ suggests that Hamlet is not a threat. (4)

‘alone’ makes Claudius feel insecure and unsure of Hamlet’s

intentions.

Refer to lines 63 to 64.

1.24 What is the ultimate aim of Claudius and Laertes?

To plot the downfall/ death of Hamlet.

 Outline the plan that Claudius has arranged in order to ensure
Hamlet’s death.

1.25 Laertes is fighting with a poisoned sword so that when he

wounds Hamlet it will be fatal – even a scratch. Claudius has also (3)
added poison to the wine that Hamlet will drink in case Laertes
fails.

Refer to lines 1 to 13: “Set me the…a wary eye”

Claudius establishes the rules for the bout/ swordfight. Explain these
rules. (3)

If Hamlet gets a 1st, 2nd and 3rd hit the king’s soldiers will give
1.26 him a military salute. Claudius will drink to Hamlet’s health and
give him a pearl. The trumpets will signal each hit so that the
cannon can be fired.

Explain how Hamlet’s refusal to drink ultimately affects Gertrude.

She drinks the goblet of poisoned wine instead and dies.

(2)

Discuss the dramatic irony in this scene.

1.27 The audience is aware that Claudius has poisoned the wine which (2)
he encourages Hamlet to drink. Queen Gertrude insists on
drinking the wine which we know will kill her.

Refer to lines 51 to 52. “Why, as a … own treachery”

Is Laertes’s statement valid? Justify your answer.

Yes, Laertes plotted to kill Hamlet with a poisoned sword and now
1.28 he has been killed with his own sword – he plotted murder and
deserves to die. (3)

No, Laertes has been manipulated by Claudius when he was

grief-stricken and had feelings of regret which shows that he is
usually a righteous man.

Refer to lines 59 to 66.

 What do Laertes’ comments reveal in this speech?
1.29
He has poisoned the tip of the rapier/sword and both men will die (2)
soon, the Queen has been poisoned as well. He reveals Claudius
as the mastermind of the plot