William Shakespeare (Chandos) Hamlet
Focus: Act 1, Scene 2
How would you react if one of your parents died and the other parent remarried almost
immediately? How does Hamlet react? How does he react to the news that his father’s ghost
has appeared to Horatio and the officers who guard the castle?
Make notes upon the following:
 The entrance of the newly-crowned King Claudius and the court. What does Claudius have to
say (1.2.1-39) about a) the late King Hamlet, his brother? b) His queen, Gertrude? c) The young
Fortinbras? d) The King of Norway? e) The ambassadors to Norway and their message?
 Laertes’ request of Claudius (1.2.50-56)
 Hamlet’s first words (1.2.65) and their significance. Why is this called an ASIDE?
 Queen Gertrude’s words to her son and his reply (1.1.68-86). What is revealed about Hamlet’s
attire? His attitude? Gertrude’s attire? Her attitude?
 The King’s words to Hamlet (1.2.87-117). Why does Claudius want Hamlet to remain at court
rather than return to the University of Wittenberg?
 Hamlet’s first SOLILOQUY (1.2.129-159) beginning “O that this too too sullied flesh would melt.”
What does this speech reveal about recent events in the royal family of Denmark? About
Hamlet’s attitude towards these events?
 Several contrasts between Hamlet and Laertes. What are they?
Focus: Act 1, Scene 3
How do you feel when someone in your family gives you advice? As you read, imagine how
Ophelia and Laertes feel in the scene.
Make notes upon the following:
 Laertes’ warning to his sister Ophelia (1.3.10-44)
 Polonius’ long-winded advice to his son Laertes (1.3.55-81). What pieces of advice does he give?
 Polonius’ warning to Ophelia (1.3.88-136). What pieces of advice does he give her?
 What would be a suitable title for this scene? Why?
 Is there any humour in this scene? Where? Why?
 How is sympathy created for Ophelia? Hamlet?
Focus: Act 1, Scene 4
One of the most important points in classical tragedy is the TRAGIC FLAW—the small
defect in the hero’s character that grows out of all proportion and leads to the hero’s downfall
in the end. In lines 23-36 of this scene, note Hamlet’s explanation of the tragic flaw
Make notes upon the following:
 The scene change. How might it be indicated on stage by set? Costume? Sounds? Visual
effects? Stage business?
 Hamlet’s view of his stepfather and uncle, King Claudius (1.4.8-12 and 13-38). How do his
comments about Claudius’ behavior reflect a national problem?
 The ghost’s return and Hamlet’s response to it (1.4.39-85). Is the ghost visible to others? How do
you know?
 The reactions of Hamlet’s companions to the situation
Focus:
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Act 1, Scene 5 Make notes:
What is the Ghost’s revelation to Hamlet?
What is Hamlet’s reaction?
Why will Hamlet feign madness?