HONORS PS1500 - Physics in the Plays of Tom Stoppard

Hamlet Act 1 --- Questions for Discussion

• Act 1, Scene 1 --- Summary

How do the opening lines set the mood of the play?

What do we learn about Horatio?

• Act 1, Scene 2 --- Summary

Compare the characters of Claudius and Hamlet. Why might Claudius have been chosen as king over Hamlet? (The King of Denmark is elected to the throne by the nobility from members of the royal family.)

• Act 1, Scene 3 --- Summary

Compare the relationship of Polonius and his children Laertes and Ophilia.

Characterize Ophelia's responses to her brother (lines 45 - 51 and llines 85, 86).

• Act 1, Scene 4 --- Summary

What is the overall mood of this scene? Describe the different possibilities for the ghost's identity as discussed by Hamlet and Horatio.

• Act 1, Scene 5 --- Summary

How does the ghost describe himself and his fate?

What does the ghost tell Hamlet, and command him to do? How does Hamlet react to the ghost's speech?  Is Hamlet surprised to learn who murdered his father?

How will Hamlet accept his task of revenge (with enthusiasm? caution? indifference?)

"There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio / Than are dreamt of in your philosophy" (lines 166, 167). Are there still more things than are dreamt of in today’s philosophy? Will this always be true?

 

Acting Assignments for Hamlet

 

1. Act 1, Scene 5, lines 1 — 91 (Two parts: Hamlet and Ghost)

Starts with Hamlet: Wither will thou lead me?

Ends with Ghost: Adieu, adieu, adieu. Remember me.

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Last modified:  Tuesday, February 27, 2007 07:03 PM