Hamlet

1. As Hamlet opens, which country is threatening to invade Denmark?

A) Sweden

B) Norway

C) Poland

D) Finland

2. When Claudius and Gertrude question Hamlet about his mourning garb, how does he defend wearing it?

A) He says that the customary mourning period hasn’t passed yet.

B) He says that he brought nothing else with him from Wittenberg.

C) He says that the clothes reflect his sincere grief.

D) He says that he will continue wearing it until his father’s murder is avenged.

3. What best describes the advice Polonius gives his son before Laertes leaves for France?

A) long-winded

B) perceptive

C) harsh

D) surprising

4. What concern do Laertes and Polonius share regarding Ophelia’s relationship with Hamlet?

A) They fear Hamlet is unstable because of his father’s death.

B) They fear Hamlet is interested in her money.

C) They fear Hamlet will sleep with her but not marry her.

D) They fear Hamlet has been unfaithful to her.

5. According to King Hamlet’s ghost, how did Claudius kill him? (short answer)

6. When Polonius tries to determine the cause of Hamlet’s “madness,” what do Hamlet’s responses indicate about his decision to feign insanity?

A) He wants to elicit sympathy.

B) He wants to avoid marrying Ophelia.

C) He wants to kill Claudius without fear of reprisal.

D) He wants to say things he couldn’t otherwise say.

7. Who are Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?