1.
What pivotal event takes place in Act III of "Hamlet"?
Correct Answer
D. The play within a play, or "The Mousetrap," is performed to expose King Claudius's guilt.
Explanation
In Act III of "Hamlet," the pivotal event is the performance of the play within a play, known as "The Mousetrap." This play is designed to expose King Claudius's guilt in the murder of Hamlet's father. By reenacting a similar scenario to the murder, Hamlet hopes to gauge Claudius's reaction and confirm his guilt. This event marks a turning point in the play as it sets the stage for the climax and the ultimate resolution of the plot.
2.
What is the name of the play Hamlet uses to “catch the conscience of the King”?
Correct Answer
B. "play The Mousetrap"
Explanation
In Act II, Scene 2 of Hamlet, the prince famously declares, "The play's the thing/Wherein I'll catch the conscience of the king" (II. 2.557–8). However, Hamlet's theatrical strategy aims initially at his mother's conscience. He dubs the play "The Mousetrap" (line 216), later metaphorically linking Claudius to a mouse in bed (III. 4.184).
3.
Who asks Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to take Hamlet to England?
Correct Answer
D. Claudius
Explanation
Claudius asks Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to take Hamlet to England. This is seen in Act 3, Scene 3 of Shakespeare's play "Hamlet". Claudius sends them on this mission as a way to get rid of Hamlet and protect his own power. He fears Hamlet's unpredictable behavior and sees sending him away as a solution to eliminate any potential threats to his rule.
4.
Why does Hamlet deliver his famous soliloquy that begins with "To be, or not to be"?
Correct Answer
A. He debates whether life is worth living or if death would be a better alternative.
Explanation
Hamlet delivers his famous soliloquy that begins with "To be, or not to be" because he is contemplating the meaning of life and whether it is worth living. He is considering the pros and cons of existence and questioning if death would be a preferable option. This soliloquy showcases Hamlet's deep inner turmoil and philosophical nature, as he grapples with existential questions and the complexities of human existence.
5.
Where does Polonius hide before he is accidentally murdered by Hamlet?
Correct Answer
B. Behind a tapestry
Explanation
In the play Hamlet, Polonius hides behind a tapestry before he is accidentally murdered by Hamlet. This hiding place is significant because it shows Polonius' attempt to eavesdrop on Hamlet's conversation with his mother, Gertrude. However, Hamlet, in a fit of rage, stabs through the tapestry without knowing Polonius is behind it, resulting in his accidental death. This scene highlights the theme of deception and the unintended consequences of actions in the play.
6.
What is the name of the play Hamlet stages for Claudius?
Correct Answer
B. The Murder of Gonzago
Explanation
In the play Hamlet, the name of the play that Hamlet stages for Claudius is "The Murder of Gonzago." This play within a play is also known as "The Mousetrap." Hamlet uses this play to confirm his suspicions about his father's murder and to provoke a reaction from Claudius, who is guilty of the crime. By watching Claudius' reaction to the play, Hamlet hopes to gather evidence of his guilt. "The Murder of Gonzago" is a crucial plot device in Shakespeare's play, as it sets in motion the events leading to the climax and resolution of the story.
7.
Who says: "Neither a borrower nor a lender be"?
Correct Answer
C. Polonius
Explanation
Polonius says the quote "Neither a borrower nor a lender be" in Shakespeare's play Hamlet. This advice is given by Polonius to his son Laertes before he leaves for France. Polonius advises against borrowing or lending money as it can lead to complications and strain relationships. This quote is often interpreted as a cautionary advice to be financially independent and not rely on others for financial support.
8.
What does Hamlet mistakenly kill during Act III, Scene 4?
Correct Answer
D. Polonius
Explanation
During Act III, Scene 4 of Hamlet, Hamlet mistakenly kills Polonius. This occurs when Hamlet is in his mother's chamber, confronting her about her hasty marriage to Claudius. Hamlet hears a noise behind the curtain and, thinking it is Claudius, impulsively stabs through the curtain, only to realize he has killed Polonius instead. This mistake sets off a chain of events that further fuels the conflict and tragedy in the play.
9.
Whose skull does Hamlet discover in the churchyard?
Correct Answer
A. Yorick, King Hamlet's jester
Explanation
Hamlet discovers Yorick's skull in the churchyard. Yorick was King Hamlet's jester and had entertained Hamlet in his childhood. This discovery triggers a moment of reflection for Hamlet, as he contemplates the inevitability of death and the fleeting nature of life. The sight of Yorick's skull serves as a memento mori, reminding Hamlet of his own mortality and the transient nature of human existence.
10.
How long after the death of Hamlet's father do Gertrude and Claudius wait to get married?
Correct Answer
C. About two months
Explanation
After the death of Hamlet's father, Gertrude and Claudius wait for about two months to get married. This suggests that they did not rush into the marriage immediately after the death, allowing some time to pass before formalizing their relationship. This time gap may indicate that Gertrude and Claudius wanted to avoid suspicion or criticism from others, as getting married too soon after the death could be seen as disrespectful or opportunistic.