Hamlet - Act Four Questions
Answer the following questions in full and complete sentences. Use direct references
from the text in your answers.
Act Four, scene one:
1.
2.
3.
How does the King receive the news of Polonius’ death?
What explanations does Gertrude offer for Polonius’ murder?
What course of action does Claudius take?
Act Four, scene two:
1.
How does Hamlet show his contempt for Rosencrantz and Guildenstern? What
is his mood?
Act Four, scene three:
1.
2.
3.
How does Claudius explain the fact that Hamlet has not been punished for
Polonius’ death?
What places does Hamlet tell us that Polonius is?
What is Claudius’ real plan for Hamlet?
Act Four, scene four:
1.
2.
This is the first time we, and Hamlet, meet Fortinbras. Compare the two young
princes.
After his meeting with Fortinbras Hamlet has another soliloquy. Reread this and
summarize what he is saying.
Act Four, scene five:
1.
2.
3.
4.
What has happened to Ophelia in scene 5? Describe her behaviour.
What new insight is provided by Ophelia’s grief?
Describe Laertes’ reaction to the news?
How does this scene bring out the contrast between Hamlet and Laertes?
Act Four, scene six:
1.
2.
What is the function of this scene?
What news does Horatio hear from Hamlet?
Act Four, scene seven:
1.
2.
How does Claudius explain Polonius’ death to Laertes?
What plan does Claudius and Laertes come up with to get revenge on Hamlet?