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 Shakespeare's "Hamlet," the pivotal event is the staging of the play within a play, known as "The Mousetrap." This event is central to the plot because Hamlet uses the performance to confirm his suspicions about his uncle, King Claudius. By observing Claudius's reaction to the play, which mirrors the circumstances of King Hamlet's murder, Hamlet seeks to gauge whether Claudius is truly guilty of the crime the ghost of Hamlet's father accused him of. This scene is crucial for advancing the theme of appearance versus reality and sets the stage for the subsequent actions and decisions of the characters.
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 "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare, the play that Hamlet uses to "catch the conscience of the King" is called "The Mousetrap." This is the play within the play, specifically crafted to mirror the circumstances surrounding the murder of Hamlet's father. Hamlet hopes that the portrayal of the murder on stage, resembling how his father was supposedly killed, will elicit a guilty reaction from King Claudius, thereby revealing his guilt. The name "The Mousetrap" is metaphorically significant, reflecting Hamlet's strategy to trap Claudius into exposing his own crimes.
3.
Who asks Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to take Hamlet to England?
Correct Answer
D. Claudius
Explanation
In William Shakespeare's "Hamlet," it is King Claudius who asks Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to take Hamlet to England. Claudius, feeling threatened by Hamlet's erratic behavior and fearing for his own safety, devises this plan as a way to remove Hamlet from Denmark. He gives Rosencrantz and Guildenstern a letter to present to the English king, which unbeknownst to them, orders Hamlet's execution upon his arrival in England. This act is part of Claudius's broader scheme to secure his position on the throne and eliminate any 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
In William Shakespeare's "Hamlet," the famous soliloquy that begins with "To be, or not to be" finds Hamlet contemplating the nature of existence and suffering. In this profound monologue, he debates whether it is nobler to endure the hardships and pains of life or to end one's suffering through death, which he views as an escape to possibly peaceful oblivion. Hamlet's soliloquy delves into the existential themes of the play, reflecting his deep internal conflict and philosophical questioning about life, death, and the moral implications of suicide. This soliloquy does not directly address his thoughts on revenge, his love for Ophelia, or his feelings about his mother's remarriage, but rather focuses on the broader philosophical question of whether to continue enduring life's challenges or to seek the peace of non-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.