Claudius’s Opening Speech
Individual Work:
Re-read the first speech Claudius gives to his people after
marrying Gertrude, the wife of his deceased brother.
On a separate sheet of paper, answer the following
questions in complete sentences taking care to use details
when asked.
1. Identify six points that Claudius makes in this speech.
2. Identify two rhetorical devices that Claudius uses. Give
at least one example of each device AND explain what
rhetorical effect the device has.
3. Is Claudius handling the current situation in Denmark
appropriately? Explain your answer.
Hamlet’s First Soliloquy
GROUP WORK: Re-read Hamlet’s opening soliloquy.
Then, on a single sheet of paper per group, answer the
following in complete sentences.
1. List the imagery and allusions Hamlet uses in the first
fourteen lines (133-147). In general, what do these images
and allusions convey about Hamlet’s state of mind?
2. List the imagery and allusions Hamlet uses in the next
sixteen lines (147-162). In general, what do these images
and allusions convey about Hamlet’s opinion of or feelings
for his mother?
3. How would you characterize Hamlet’s sentences (mood,
structure, etc . . .) throughout this speech? What does this
tell you about Hamlet and his state of mind?
4. What new information, if any, is given in this speech
about
(a) Hamlet, (b) Claudius, (c) Gertrude, (d) Hamlet’s
father
5. How does Hamlet’s language compare and contrast with
the language of Claudius’ first speech?