Study Questions for Hamlet Act 4 Scenes 1-4
For each of the questions, please provide a quote from the play.
Act 4 Scene 1
1.
Elaborate on Claudius reaction to Polonius’ death. Does he understand the
implications of what happened? What will he do now? Infer why Claudius can’t simply
just announce that Hamlet has killed Polonius.
Act 4 Scene 2
2.
What is Hamlet’s analysis of the characters Rosencrantz and Guildenstern? With
this in mind, analyze the relationship between the three.
Act 4, Scene 3
1.
At the opening of Scene 3, we see clearly that Claudius and Hamlet are in open
opposition. Claudius still tries to hide his hatred from the public, though, and announces
that Hamlet must go to England for his own safety. Then comes the irony. When Hamlet
says, “Good,” Claudius replies “So is it, if thou knew’st our purpose,” to which Hamlet
retorts, “I see a cherub that sees them.” All in all, this is a fine display of verbal fencing.
Why do you suppose Hamlet seems so eager to be leaving? After Hamlet’s departure,
what is Claudius’ goal?
Act 4 Scene 4
1.
How does Hamlet’s closing scene soliloquy reveal his state of mind and
confusion? What is his concern? In his speech, what does he say about “being great?”