HONORS PS1500 - Physics in the Plays of Tom Stoppard

Hamlet Act 3, Scene 3 through Act 4, Scene 7 --- Questions for Discussion

 

• Act 3, Scene 3 --- Summary
  
  What does Claudius plan for Hamlet?
  
  Why does Hamlet refrain from killing Claudius, and why is his decision ironic?
  
  
  

• Act 3, Scene 4 --- Summary
  
  Line 29: How is the line "As kill a king?" delivered by Gertrude?  Does she suspect (or have knowledge of) Claudius’ guilt?
  
  Lines 173 to 176: When Hamlet says, "... I must be their scourge and minister," is he taking control or relinquishing control of his actions and fate?
  
   

• Act 4, Scenes 1 and 3 --- Summary

Scene 1: In the previous scene (in Gertrude’s private room), what does she promise in lines 198 to 200?  Does she keep her promise here in Scene 1 of Act 4?  Why?

Compare Hamlet's vision of humankind in Act 2, Scene 2, lines 286 to 290, with his perspective in Scene 3.

• Act 4, Scene 4 --- Summary

Comment on how Hamlet's vision of humankind in Act 2, Scene 2, lines 286 to 290, relates to his perspective in this scene's final soliloquy.

• Act 4, Scene 5 --- Summary

What are the reasons for Ophelia's behavior?

Compare Laertes' passion for revenge with Hamlet's.

• Act 4, Scenes 6 and 7 --- Summary

Scene 7:  Evaluate Claudius' plan to kill Hamlet without raising suspicions. What do you imagine Claudius would do after Laertes kills Hamlet?

Acting Assignments for Hamlet
 

1. Act 4, Scene 2 (Four parts: Hamlet, Rosencrantz, Guildenstern, and Gentleman)

Starts with Hamlet: Safely stowed.

Ends with Hamlet: Of nothing. Bring me to him. Hide fox, and all after!
 

2. Act 4, Scene 7, lines 106 to 147 (Two parts: Claudius and Laertes)

Starts with Claudius: Laertes, was your father dear to you?

Ends with Laertes: It may be death.

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Last modified:  Tuesday, February 27, 2007 07:10 PM