Sunday, November 17, 2013
Act 5 theme
The best fitting theme for act 5 is Appearance vs Reality. So much in this act appeared to be something it was not, mainly in scene 2. Every character is dropping dead. Hamlet is challenged to fence with Laertes and is told that the king has made a wager with Laertes that Hamlet will win although we really know that Laertes and the King have a plan that Hamlet will "not win" and die. It appears that the king is putting a valuable gem in the wine to give Hamlet if he wins although we know that in reality it is really poison. When Hamlet gets a hold of Laertes sword, it appears to him if it is just the same as his but in reality it really has the poison on the end. There is so much deception in this act that we know is happening but Hamlet does not.
ACT 5 WHO'S WHO
Hamlet- Walks upon the gravediggers, but doesn't know that Ophelia is dead yet. He hides in the bushes to watch the procession, but then emerges when he realizes that Ophelia is the one being buried. He then pronounces that he did truly love Ophelia, even more then Laertes did. He reveals to Horatio that he switched the letter given to Rosencratz and Guildenstern, and that they will now be the ones who are executed when they arrive to England, he says that he feels no sympathy for them. He agrees to fight Laertes, and asks him for his forgiveness. He exchanges swords with Laertes in the midst of their fight, and wounds Laertes with the poisoned sword. After realizing that Claudius was to blame for the poison, he forces him to drink the remainder of the poisoned wine. Asks for Laertes forgiveness.
Gertrude- Comes to the conclusion that Hamlet is mad after seeing his behavior in the graveyard. She ends up accidentally drinking the poisoned wine. She ends up realizing that the drink was poisoned and calls out for Hamlet, she then dies.
Claudius- He urges Laertes to be patient at the graveyard, and to stick with their plan to get revenge. He puts poison in a glass of wine for Hamlet to drink. He tries to stop Gertrude from drinking out the cup. Is forced to drink the poisoned wine and dies while crying out for help.
Laertes- Attends his sisters funeral, but then becomes infuriated with the priest when he refuses to give Ophelia a full proper christian burial. He jumps into the grave with Ophelia so that he can hold her one last time. Tells Hamlet that he can't accept his apology at the moment. Manages to wound Hamlet with the poisoned sword. Laertes admits to Hamlet that they have both been stabbed by the poisoned sword which was the idea of the king, and the poisoned wine was also of Claudius doing. Forgives Hamlet, and then dies.
Gravediggers- They dig the grave for Ophelia. However, they spend most of their time talking about whether or not she should really be buried there since her death appeared to look like a suicide.
Horatio- Agrees to tell the story of what happened that led to such a devastating scene.
Rosencratz- Executed.
Guildenstern- Executed.
Osric- A courtier who comes to deliver the message that Claudius wants Hamlet to fence against Laertes. Tells everyone that Fortinbras has come to attack.
Fortinbras- Comes to overthrow Denmark, but ends up walking into a gruesome scene. He tells his forces to give Hamlet a proper soldier burial.
Personal Reaction:
This last act was really sad, and I didn't expect for literally EVERYONE to die. I think that at the end, Hamlet and Laertes both realized that they had made some big mistakes and they wanted to be forgiven for all of the things that they had done wrong. I also felt really bad for Horatio, because he just watched everyone that he cared about die right in front of his eyes and he couldn't really do anything to stop it. Overall, this was one of the most depressing plays that I've ever read, and i'm just hoping that we can read something not sad next time, like a Disney book or something.
Gertrude- Comes to the conclusion that Hamlet is mad after seeing his behavior in the graveyard. She ends up accidentally drinking the poisoned wine. She ends up realizing that the drink was poisoned and calls out for Hamlet, she then dies.
Claudius- He urges Laertes to be patient at the graveyard, and to stick with their plan to get revenge. He puts poison in a glass of wine for Hamlet to drink. He tries to stop Gertrude from drinking out the cup. Is forced to drink the poisoned wine and dies while crying out for help.
Laertes- Attends his sisters funeral, but then becomes infuriated with the priest when he refuses to give Ophelia a full proper christian burial. He jumps into the grave with Ophelia so that he can hold her one last time. Tells Hamlet that he can't accept his apology at the moment. Manages to wound Hamlet with the poisoned sword. Laertes admits to Hamlet that they have both been stabbed by the poisoned sword which was the idea of the king, and the poisoned wine was also of Claudius doing. Forgives Hamlet, and then dies.
Gravediggers- They dig the grave for Ophelia. However, they spend most of their time talking about whether or not she should really be buried there since her death appeared to look like a suicide.
Horatio- Agrees to tell the story of what happened that led to such a devastating scene.
Rosencratz- Executed.
Guildenstern- Executed.
Osric- A courtier who comes to deliver the message that Claudius wants Hamlet to fence against Laertes. Tells everyone that Fortinbras has come to attack.
Fortinbras- Comes to overthrow Denmark, but ends up walking into a gruesome scene. He tells his forces to give Hamlet a proper soldier burial.
Personal Reaction:
This last act was really sad, and I didn't expect for literally EVERYONE to die. I think that at the end, Hamlet and Laertes both realized that they had made some big mistakes and they wanted to be forgiven for all of the things that they had done wrong. I also felt really bad for Horatio, because he just watched everyone that he cared about die right in front of his eyes and he couldn't really do anything to stop it. Overall, this was one of the most depressing plays that I've ever read, and i'm just hoping that we can read something not sad next time, like a Disney book or something.
ACT 4 LANGUAGE
Providence: Provision for the future
Act 4 Scene 1 Line 19-
Claudius: Alas, how shall this bloody deed be answered?
It will be laid to us, whose providence
Should have kept short, restrained and out of haunt,
This mad young man.
Countenance: Sanction
Act 4 Scene 1 Line 34-
Claudius: The sun no sooner shall the mountains touch
But we will ship him hence, and this vile deed
We must, with all our majesty and skill,
Both countenance and excuse.
Scourge: Punishment
Act 4 Scene 3 Line 6
Claudius: Yet must not we put the strong law on him.
He’s loved of the distracted multitude,
Who like not in their judgment, but their eyes.
And where ’tis so, th' offender’s scourge is weighed,
But never the offense.
Cicatrice: wound
Act 4 Scene 3 Line 65
Claudius: And, England, if my love thou hold’st at aught—
As my great power thereof may give thee sense,
Since yet thy cicatrice looks raw and red
After the Danish sword and thy free awe
Pays homage to us—thou mayst not coldly set
Our sovereign process, which imports at full,
By letters congruing to that effect,
The present death of Hamlet.
the hectic: A severe fever
Act 4 Scene 3 Line 71
Claudius: Do it, England,
For like the hectic in my blood he rages,
And thou must cure me. Till I know ’tis done,
Howe'er my haps, my joys were ne'er begun.
These words are used to create a sense of impending doom and convey to the reader just how desperate Claudius is to get rid of Hamlet.
Personal Reaction: I don't believe that Hamlet had any intention of harming Polonious, and this is going to cause him to feel guilty over the "accidental" murder. I think that Claudius is using Polonious death as an excuse to get rid of Hamlet so that way his secrets won't be revealed. I feel really bad for Ophelia, because she has lost every one that she cares about.
Act 4 Scene 1 Line 19-
Claudius: Alas, how shall this bloody deed be answered?
It will be laid to us, whose providence
Should have kept short, restrained and out of haunt,
This mad young man.
Countenance: Sanction
Act 4 Scene 1 Line 34-
Claudius: The sun no sooner shall the mountains touch
But we will ship him hence, and this vile deed
We must, with all our majesty and skill,
Both countenance and excuse.
Scourge: Punishment
Act 4 Scene 3 Line 6
Claudius: Yet must not we put the strong law on him.
He’s loved of the distracted multitude,
Who like not in their judgment, but their eyes.
And where ’tis so, th' offender’s scourge is weighed,
But never the offense.
Cicatrice: wound
Act 4 Scene 3 Line 65
Claudius: And, England, if my love thou hold’st at aught—
As my great power thereof may give thee sense,
Since yet thy cicatrice looks raw and red
After the Danish sword and thy free awe
Pays homage to us—thou mayst not coldly set
Our sovereign process, which imports at full,
By letters congruing to that effect,
The present death of Hamlet.
the hectic: A severe fever
Act 4 Scene 3 Line 71
Claudius: Do it, England,
For like the hectic in my blood he rages,
And thou must cure me. Till I know ’tis done,
Howe'er my haps, my joys were ne'er begun.
These words are used to create a sense of impending doom and convey to the reader just how desperate Claudius is to get rid of Hamlet.
Personal Reaction: I don't believe that Hamlet had any intention of harming Polonious, and this is going to cause him to feel guilty over the "accidental" murder. I think that Claudius is using Polonious death as an excuse to get rid of Hamlet so that way his secrets won't be revealed. I feel really bad for Ophelia, because she has lost every one that she cares about.
Act 5 Language
The Skulls, in the graveyard.
These were symbols of death obviously. But they were one of the only physical symbols I remember from this play. They were probably able to show Hamlet that everyone dies an they are often forgotten. He realizes he knew the man whose skull was dug up and he didn't even recognize him. Kind of like when he said Polonius will be eaten by worms, this man has also decayed and now no one seems to care.
The Poison
I think the poison was as symbol for the tragedy of revenge. That is probably very general, but the poison was used to kill people out of revenge and it literally ended up killing everyone involved. Whether through the pearl of through the sword, the poison was a sad reality for the people who mistakenly thought they could solve all their problems through revenge.
Personal Response:
I enjoyed reading Hamlet...more then I thought I would, I thought the story line was actually really good, if only it didn't use all the language it did. It was often so hard to understand that it took away from the enjoyment or entertainment side.I liked the ending though, I thought everyone deserved to die, except for Ophelia. The end, was weird with Denmark getting taken over, but I thought it suited the situation, because ultimately none of the characters won out.
Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Act 4 Symbols and Allusions
Ophelia's flowers are each symbols. She explains some of them like fennel and columbines for adultery and a daisy for unhappy love. But others such as rosemary for remembering and pan sys for thoughts are symbolizing the loss of her own mind and her inability to form logical thoughts.
The fact that Ophelia drowned is also symbolic of the weight she was being forced to carry around was essentially the thing that drive her crazy. The fact that she had no say in her life and made no decisions on her own made her an easy target for everyone to put their problems onto. She felt the desperation of her father to keep her safe, she felt the need the king and queen had to find out what was wrong with Hamlet, she felt so attached to Hamlet and cared for him that she also worried about his struggles. All of these worries with no explanations are what drowned Ophelia mind.
When Ophelia is singing in scene 5 she also mentions Saint Charity. Charity was tortured and martyred at a young age because of her faith. This symbolizes her father who was killed by accident and had done nothing wrong in his daughters eyes. THis made him a martyr to her.
Personal Reaction: Most of this act seemed like they were just telling what had happened before and things that were going on around them. THe most important things that I thought happened were Laertes and the kings plan forming, the letter from Hamlet, and Ophelia drowning. I think all of those things are sure to carry over into the next act. I also think a lot of people are going to die in the final act because of the confusion and the new plan.
2) Clarification Questions/Key Passages
Act 4, Scene 4, Pg. 128, Lines 31-67
Hamlet is questioning himself as to why he's doing what he's doing. He cant figure out why he's putting off killing Claudius. It's like he doesn't understand why he's thinking so much or why he's having so many convicting thoughts about the revenge. He just can't seem to bring himself to the final act of it.
Act 4, Scene 5, Pg. 137, Lines 205-214
King Claudius is trying to redeem himself. This is important because it sets up the relationship between Laertes and the King as they plot to kill Hamlet. The King wants Laertes to know that it wasn't him that killed Polonius so he wasn't to lose his crown when everyone starts asking qustions. He blames everything on Hamlet so there can be no reason anything would come back to him.
Act 4, Scene 7, Pg. 143, Lines 128-140
The King is telling Laertes that it is alright for him to attempt to murder Hamlet. Throughout these lines, their true feelings come to the surface and we don't have to keep guessing about what they are going to do about this. This passage also builds further suspense as to what the readers think will happen later.
Hamlet is questioning himself as to why he's doing what he's doing. He cant figure out why he's putting off killing Claudius. It's like he doesn't understand why he's thinking so much or why he's having so many convicting thoughts about the revenge. He just can't seem to bring himself to the final act of it.
Act 4, Scene 5, Pg. 137, Lines 205-214
King Claudius is trying to redeem himself. This is important because it sets up the relationship between Laertes and the King as they plot to kill Hamlet. The King wants Laertes to know that it wasn't him that killed Polonius so he wasn't to lose his crown when everyone starts asking qustions. He blames everything on Hamlet so there can be no reason anything would come back to him.
Act 4, Scene 7, Pg. 143, Lines 128-140
The King is telling Laertes that it is alright for him to attempt to murder Hamlet. Throughout these lines, their true feelings come to the surface and we don't have to keep guessing about what they are going to do about this. This passage also builds further suspense as to what the readers think will happen later.
Clarification Questions
Why did Laertes secretly come back from France?
Why does Laertes assume Claudius killed his father?
How do you think Ophelia's death will affect Laertes plan to kill Hamlet?
What is the symbolism between the flowers and Ophelia?
4) Theme (Act 4)
Twists of Fate
I think twists of fate, was an appropriate theme for this act because of the many events that took place so unexpectedly towards the end. In general, Hamlet being sent to England came as a surprise to me. I was thinking more towards him staying around, and carrying out his revenge pretty quickly but instead he was sent off. Ophelia's death, was probably the most obvious example in this act. The details about her death were pretty unclear, and I was a bit confused but I defiantly didn't see it coming. I guess I just thought she would try to get revenge, or at least understand more about her fathers death, but she just seems to go crazy with no questions. Laertes comes back from France and is so completely misinformed and heated over his fathers death, that he is going to kill Claudius to get revenge. Just two acts ago this guy was asking the honorable king for permission to return to France. He seemed like a nice, respectable young man then and now hes seemed to have completely lost it. Some foreshadowing could be seen at the end, that suggested this theme could continue.
Personal Response
I didn't like this act as much as I have the others. There was a lot of action (Hamlet to England, Laertes return to Elsinore, Ophelia death) but it all happened so quickly I felt like there weren't enough details or descriptions. I kind of got lost in all the chaos. I really didn't like how they didn't tell us more about Ophelia's death (they better in the next act), it seemed like she was such a big character it would be inappropriate for her to die and us not know how. Lastly, I think someone needs to get a hold of Laertes, before he does something real stupid. He has just lost his whole family in two days, he is bound to do something reckless or ignorant.
I think twists of fate, was an appropriate theme for this act because of the many events that took place so unexpectedly towards the end. In general, Hamlet being sent to England came as a surprise to me. I was thinking more towards him staying around, and carrying out his revenge pretty quickly but instead he was sent off. Ophelia's death, was probably the most obvious example in this act. The details about her death were pretty unclear, and I was a bit confused but I defiantly didn't see it coming. I guess I just thought she would try to get revenge, or at least understand more about her fathers death, but she just seems to go crazy with no questions. Laertes comes back from France and is so completely misinformed and heated over his fathers death, that he is going to kill Claudius to get revenge. Just two acts ago this guy was asking the honorable king for permission to return to France. He seemed like a nice, respectable young man then and now hes seemed to have completely lost it. Some foreshadowing could be seen at the end, that suggested this theme could continue.
Personal Response
I didn't like this act as much as I have the others. There was a lot of action (Hamlet to England, Laertes return to Elsinore, Ophelia death) but it all happened so quickly I felt like there weren't enough details or descriptions. I kind of got lost in all the chaos. I really didn't like how they didn't tell us more about Ophelia's death (they better in the next act), it seemed like she was such a big character it would be inappropriate for her to die and us not know how. Lastly, I think someone needs to get a hold of Laertes, before he does something real stupid. He has just lost his whole family in two days, he is bound to do something reckless or ignorant.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Act 3 Theme
For Act 3, I think the theme is Disillusionment/Betrayal because so many people are deceiving others, at their own will and because they were told to. Ophelia loves Hamlet but pretends not to for her father. Hamlets friends admit to being hired in order to find out what is wrong with Hamlet. The King and Queen are not voicing their concerns for Hamlet but going around him to try and fix what is making him mad. Every one close to Hamlet is lying and sneaking around him to try and discover what is truly the matter. No one has been frank with Hamlet to try and solve the problem, they think secrecy and multiple plans is the solution and easiest way for them to get to the bottom of things, but it is not. It is simply causing Hamlet to feel alone in the castle with no one to reach out to for help. This is why in his time of need he also sets up a plan, to trick the king into revealing that he has killed his brother. More scheming involves a way to kill the king for revenge and causes him to kill polonius out of rashness.
Personal reaction: Honesty is not being used by anyone in the play and it is the cause of most of the confusion and drama. Without that tension of lies and schemes, there would be no driving force for the show. It is definitely living up to the theme of misunderstanding so far.
Monday, November 11, 2013
6) Act 3 Vocabulary
Pregnant: Ready. Hamlet uses this describing someone who has "ready" hands, meaning they're willing to donate money.
Thrift: Financial success. Hamlet uses this to describe someone wealthy.
Posy: Motto. Hamlet says this, comparing an introduction to the play to a cheesy inscription on a wedding ring.
Argument: Summary of the plot. Claudius asks Hamlet about the plot of the play, wondering if there is anything offensive in it.
Round: Outspoken. Polonius is telling Queen Gertrude to be blunt and outspoken with hamlet about his recent behavior.
Thrift: Financial success. Hamlet uses this to describe someone wealthy.
Posy: Motto. Hamlet says this, comparing an introduction to the play to a cheesy inscription on a wedding ring.
Argument: Summary of the plot. Claudius asks Hamlet about the plot of the play, wondering if there is anything offensive in it.
Round: Outspoken. Polonius is telling Queen Gertrude to be blunt and outspoken with hamlet about his recent behavior.
1) Who's who
Hamlet: Can't trust anyone. He is spied on by the King and Polonius to see if his madness is caused by his love for Ophelia which it is decided it is not. He acts very crazy at the play in front of everyone although it is just an act and also comes to the conclusion that the King really did kill his father. His opportunity to kill the King also arises but he does not take advantage of it. Also kills Polonius.
Polonius: Very protective of his daughter still, not exactly doing anything seriously wrong but ends up dying from being stabbed by Hamlet.
King: Still very deceiving. Wants to send Hamlet off to England. His guilty conscious is shown when the play is performed and they speak of the way that he killed his brother.
Gertrude: Starting to seem very concerned with Hamlet's well being. Her guilty conscious is also present during the play. Towards the end of this act she seems as if she truly does think Hamlet is mad because of the way he talked to the ghost that she could not see.
Rosencrantz/Guildenstern: Seem very sketchy to me. Can't tell who's side they are really on. Have been asked to take Hamlet to England.
Ophelia: Thinks Hamlet is mad after the encounter with him to break things off. Although I think she really does love him she is so confused as to why he is acting the way he has been and is also afraid to disobey her father and brother.
Personal Reaction: Finally something really interesting is happening. I am curious to find out if Hamlet ends up killing the King or not. And what happens to Ophelia. It kind of bothers me that no one is on the same page about anything. Why don't they just ask each other what's going on?! Act 3 was an interesting read.
Polonius: Very protective of his daughter still, not exactly doing anything seriously wrong but ends up dying from being stabbed by Hamlet.
King: Still very deceiving. Wants to send Hamlet off to England. His guilty conscious is shown when the play is performed and they speak of the way that he killed his brother.
Gertrude: Starting to seem very concerned with Hamlet's well being. Her guilty conscious is also present during the play. Towards the end of this act she seems as if she truly does think Hamlet is mad because of the way he talked to the ghost that she could not see.
Rosencrantz/Guildenstern: Seem very sketchy to me. Can't tell who's side they are really on. Have been asked to take Hamlet to England.
Ophelia: Thinks Hamlet is mad after the encounter with him to break things off. Although I think she really does love him she is so confused as to why he is acting the way he has been and is also afraid to disobey her father and brother.
Personal Reaction: Finally something really interesting is happening. I am curious to find out if Hamlet ends up killing the King or not. And what happens to Ophelia. It kind of bothers me that no one is on the same page about anything. Why don't they just ask each other what's going on?! Act 3 was an interesting read.
Act 3 Allusions
1. Vulcan: God of fire in Ancient Roman mythology that was often depicted as a blacksmith. A "stithy" is defined as an archaic object that is used to forged metal. Hamlet is saying that if Claudius shows no signs of guilt within one speech of the play, then he was crazy for thinking that Claudius could have committed such a crime.
Act 3 Scene 2 Line 8
"If his occulted guilt
Act 3 Scene 2 Line 8
"If his occulted guilt
Do not itself unkennel in one speech,
It is a damnèd ghost that we have seen,
And my imaginations are as foul
As Vulcan’s stithy."
2. Nero: A tyrannical Roman emperor from 54-68 AD that was known for his cruelty. He was famous for capturing and burning Christians in his garden at night to provide a source of light. Hamlet is saying that he wants to be cruel like Nero and evoke an emotional response in his mother, but he doesn't want to harm her or become a monster.
Act 3 Scene 2 Line 401
"'Tis now the very witching time of night,
When churchyards yawn and hell itself breathes out
Contagion to this world. Now could I drink hot blood
And do such bitter business as the bitter day
Would quake to look on. Soft, now to my mother.—
O heart, lose not thy nature, let not ever
The soul of Nero enter this firm bosom.
Let me be cruel, not unnatural.
I will speak daggers to her but use none.
My tongue and soul in this be hypocrites.
How in my words somever she be shent,
To give them seals never, my soul, consent!"
- While doing research I discovered that Nero was adopted by his great-uncle whose name was also Claudius, I found this to be extremely coincidental. Claudius was a Roman emperor who was perceived to be weak because of physical ailments by some of the senators. This caused many of the senators to attempt to assassinate him, but they all failed, and Claudius died of natural causes at an early age.
3. Mark of Cain: The story of Cain and Abel is found in Genesis Ch. 4, Cain killed his brother Abel out of jealousy and was cursed with a mark by God. As Claudius sits in his room reflecting on his actions, he is asking how he can be forgiven when he has done something that is so frowned upon in the bible.
Act 3 Scene 3 Line 39
"Oh, my offence is rank. It smells to heaven.
It hath the primal eldest curse upon ’t,
A brother’s murder. Pray can I not.
Though inclination be as sharp as will,
My stronger guilt defeats my strong intent,
And, like a man to double business bound,
I stand in pause where I shall first begin,
And both neglect. What if this cursèd hand
Were thicker than itself with brother’s blood?
4. Mercury: God of commerce, messages, poetry, luck.
Hyperion: Titan God of Light
Jove: Roman King of Gods, & God of the Sky
Mars: Roman God of War
Hamlet is comparing each characteristic of his father to one of these powerful Gods, in order to show his mother how much superior his father was to Claudius. By giving his father all of these godly attributes, he is making Claudius seem weak and useless.
Act 3 Scene 4 Line 68
"Look here upon this picture and on this,
The counterfeit presentment of two brothers.
See, what a grace was seated on this brow?
Hyperion’s curls, the front of Jove himself,
An eye like Mars to threaten and command,
A station like the herald Mercury
New-lighted on a heaven-kissing hill"
Personal Reaction: This act contained the most plot twists. I think that Ophelia is genuinely heartbroken and I feel bad for her. I wish that Hamlet would have just stopped being such a guy for once and made sure that she was okay, because she obviously isn't. Claudius is starting to face what he has done, and i'm looking forward to seeing how he handles his guilt in the final acts. Polonious death is going to be a very big issue to deal with, and i'm not sure how Hamlet is planning on sweet talking his way out of this one.
Sunday, November 10, 2013
(Act 3) 2)Clarification Questions 3)Key Passages
Clarification Questions
Is Hamlet serious about Ophelia joining a convent?
Hamlet wanted Horatio to observe Claudius' behavior and look for what?
Why did Polonius need listen in to Gertrude and Hamlet?
How did the King respond to the play?
Why didn't Hamlet kill Claudius while he was praying?
When would be the ideal time to kill him?
Why did Hamlet find Polonius behind the curtain?
Did Hamlet seem upset about the death?
Key Passages
-Act 3,Scene1, Lines 65-170 (Hamlet and Ophelia)
This passage is the first time we get to actually see the tension between Hamlet and Ophelia. It highlights the misunderstanding and lack of communication between these two.Towards the end, we also see that Hamlet believes Ophelia set him up for her father by staging this meeting.This passage also has Hamlets suicide soliloquy, which lets us as the readers know more about his thoughts and how life doesn't seem to be worth living.
-Act 3, Scene 4, Lines 40-115 (Hamlet and Gertrude)
This passage is a conversation between Hamlet and Gertrude, and Hamlet is pretty much letting her have it. It seems like everything that has been bottled up in him, throughout the entire play has finally come out. He confronts her marriage to the Claudius and asks her why she has been so blind. He tells her she is acting without her senses and on impulse.And then goes on to insult her and Claudius some more.
Personal Response:
I probably enjoyed this act the most so far and actually cant wait to read the next. Polonius finally dies and I believe that will make reading this play a lot more enjoyable. I'm beginning to see what was meant by "Why does Hamlet take so long to kill Claudius", though I have only seen one example of a missed opportunity I can see where it would get annoying to read. But for this example I think he was justified, if someone killed my father, I wouldn't want to be responsible for sending them to Heaven either. I say that acknowledging there is some very strange theology here and I don't believe I would want to send someone to hell.
Is Hamlet serious about Ophelia joining a convent?
Hamlet wanted Horatio to observe Claudius' behavior and look for what?
Why did Polonius need listen in to Gertrude and Hamlet?
How did the King respond to the play?
Why didn't Hamlet kill Claudius while he was praying?
When would be the ideal time to kill him?
Why did Hamlet find Polonius behind the curtain?
Did Hamlet seem upset about the death?
Key Passages
-Act 3,Scene1, Lines 65-170 (Hamlet and Ophelia)
This passage is the first time we get to actually see the tension between Hamlet and Ophelia. It highlights the misunderstanding and lack of communication between these two.Towards the end, we also see that Hamlet believes Ophelia set him up for her father by staging this meeting.This passage also has Hamlets suicide soliloquy, which lets us as the readers know more about his thoughts and how life doesn't seem to be worth living.
-Act 3, Scene 4, Lines 40-115 (Hamlet and Gertrude)
This passage is a conversation between Hamlet and Gertrude, and Hamlet is pretty much letting her have it. It seems like everything that has been bottled up in him, throughout the entire play has finally come out. He confronts her marriage to the Claudius and asks her why she has been so blind. He tells her she is acting without her senses and on impulse.And then goes on to insult her and Claudius some more.
Personal Response:
I probably enjoyed this act the most so far and actually cant wait to read the next. Polonius finally dies and I believe that will make reading this play a lot more enjoyable. I'm beginning to see what was meant by "Why does Hamlet take so long to kill Claudius", though I have only seen one example of a missed opportunity I can see where it would get annoying to read. But for this example I think he was justified, if someone killed my father, I wouldn't want to be responsible for sending them to Heaven either. I say that acknowledging there is some very strange theology here and I don't believe I would want to send someone to hell.
Thursday, November 7, 2013
5. Act 2 Allusions
In act 2 scene ii, Hamlet calls Polonius Jephthah. Jephthah is a biblical character that sacrifices his daughter. Hamlet says this in reference toward Polonius using his daughter as means to an end in order to please the king. This parallels Jephthah's sacrifice of his daughter to please God. This also subtlety implied that Polonius saw the king and queen as gods, and his life revolved around them and no one else.
As Hamlet discusses plays with the theatre troupe, he mentions a character from the Iliad (Priam).
Personal Reaction: Hamlet's whining is getting irritating, but overall I'm actually really enjoying the story. I feel like the identity of the ghost wont be revealed until the very end of the play, if at all. I'm still sticking with the idea that its true identity is irrelevant and its only there to pose the question of faith in our beliefs and if we can be confident enough in our beliefs to act on them.
6) Language
1. Beshrew: mad at, angry. He is mad at his jealous thoughts saying "beshrew my jealousy!"
2. Perpend: consider. Polinious is telling the queen to consider his view of the situation. He thinks she should consider what the letter that Hamlet wrote Ophelia meant.
3. Fain: gladly. Polonious is saying it would be easy to prove to the King that he is honorable and faithful.
4. "Or given my heart a winking": closed the eyes of my heart to this. If he would have "given his heart a winking" then he wouldn't catch on to Hamlet's madness.
5. Digested: arranged, ordered. Hamlet is speaking about rearranging the play with parts that will make it obvious that the King is guilty of killing his brother.
Personal Reaction: I'm confused as to whether or not Hamlet is faking the whole being crazy thing, if he really is or if its just everyone else's reaction that is making me think he is. It was a smart move to ask the players to add in a part that would reveal to Hamlet if the King is responsible for his father's death and I cant wait to see if it actually works or not. Also the fact that everyone is being sent to spy on someone is sketchy.
2. Perpend: consider. Polinious is telling the queen to consider his view of the situation. He thinks she should consider what the letter that Hamlet wrote Ophelia meant.
3. Fain: gladly. Polonious is saying it would be easy to prove to the King that he is honorable and faithful.
4. "Or given my heart a winking": closed the eyes of my heart to this. If he would have "given his heart a winking" then he wouldn't catch on to Hamlet's madness.
5. Digested: arranged, ordered. Hamlet is speaking about rearranging the play with parts that will make it obvious that the King is guilty of killing his brother.
Personal Reaction: I'm confused as to whether or not Hamlet is faking the whole being crazy thing, if he really is or if its just everyone else's reaction that is making me think he is. It was a smart move to ask the players to add in a part that would reveal to Hamlet if the King is responsible for his father's death and I cant wait to see if it actually works or not. Also the fact that everyone is being sent to spy on someone is sketchy.
4. ) Act 2: Theme- Appearance Vs. Reality
In Act 2, the characters in the play are faced with the struggle of trying to differentiate between Appearances and Reality. Throughout the act, we see that several characters are planning schemes and trying to trick each other. Polonious employs the help of a servant in order to go to France and figure out if Laertes has been behaving improperly. He tells the servant to deceive the people in France to gain this information. Although, it will appear as if a friend is just asking simple, curious questions about an old friend, it is actually the servant trying to spy on Laertes for his father. A perfect example of Appearance vs. Reality.
Ophelia is also confused when trying to interpret what is causing the distraught behavior of Hamlet. When Hamlet enters her bedroom, refusing to speak, shakes her, and has the appearance of a wild man, Ophelia comes to the conclusion that his erratic behavior is the result of her refusal to accept his advances. She decides that his love for her has caused him to go mad, and informs Polonious. However, Hamlet's behavior isn't the result of puppy love, little does Ophelia know that Hamlet just witnessed the ghost of his father. This lack of communication causes there to be a distinct gap between appearance vs. reality in this part of the play.
Personal Reaction: While reading this act, I thought that Polonious was so eager to find out if his son was misbehaving so that he could order him to come home if he was. I believe that Polonious has severe control issues, and the fact that his son is in a completely different country is causing him to feel like he has less power. When Hamlet enters Ophelia's room, but then refuses to speak, I think it's because he realizes that Ophelia is under the control of her father, and he doesn't want her to share his secret. Overall, I've decided that Polonious is an arrogant and controlling father who desires to have power over his children. My opinion of the king isn't nearly as gracious, I think he is a narcissistic power-junkie who is willing to do whatever it takes to stay king.
Ophelia is also confused when trying to interpret what is causing the distraught behavior of Hamlet. When Hamlet enters her bedroom, refusing to speak, shakes her, and has the appearance of a wild man, Ophelia comes to the conclusion that his erratic behavior is the result of her refusal to accept his advances. She decides that his love for her has caused him to go mad, and informs Polonious. However, Hamlet's behavior isn't the result of puppy love, little does Ophelia know that Hamlet just witnessed the ghost of his father. This lack of communication causes there to be a distinct gap between appearance vs. reality in this part of the play.
Personal Reaction: While reading this act, I thought that Polonious was so eager to find out if his son was misbehaving so that he could order him to come home if he was. I believe that Polonious has severe control issues, and the fact that his son is in a completely different country is causing him to feel like he has less power. When Hamlet enters Ophelia's room, but then refuses to speak, I think it's because he realizes that Ophelia is under the control of her father, and he doesn't want her to share his secret. Overall, I've decided that Polonious is an arrogant and controlling father who desires to have power over his children. My opinion of the king isn't nearly as gracious, I think he is a narcissistic power-junkie who is willing to do whatever it takes to stay king.
1)Who's Who (Act 2)
Hamlet: Very troubled from seeing the ghost in the first Act, people are beginning to think he is crazy. He is plotting against Claudius by changing a play in order to prove his guilt. He is also being spied on by both the King and the Queen and Polonius, in order to see what is bothering him and if he is actually in love with Ophelia.
Polonius:Schemeing against his son he hired a spy to go lie about his behavior and see what he is up to in Paris.Hamlet seems to despise him(makes clever remarks at his expense all the time). Has gotten the King and Queen in on his scheme against Hamlet. Very protective of Ophelia?
Claudius: "Concerned" for Hamlets health and well-being, (though its probably selfish because they secretly hire people to spy on him). Appears to want to get to the bottom of Hamlets emotions quickly.
Gertrude:Seems genuinely concerned for Hamlet, (though she rightfully notes it could be the death and her quick marriage). Pleads with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to help Hamlet get back to his old self.
Rosencrantz/Guildenstern- Two of Hamlets friends from the past, and supposedly still dear to him. Summoned by the King and Queen to spend time with Hamlet and see what is bothering him. They immediately fail and tell Hamlet they were called in to help him. That might show loyalty and honesty??
Ophelia- Deeply troubled after Hamlet barges into her room and starts going crazy.Struggling with her father and brothers instructions and her love for Hamlet.
Personal Response
This Act was interesting to me at first, but it soon started to get on my nerves. There is so much secrecy and scheming going on there's no question this won't turn out well. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern quickly became some of my favorite characters, simply because they were the only characters that had nothing to hide.This Polonius character, is obviously a rude and arrogant idiot. He is literally plotting against almost all of the characters I mentioned. I don't understand how he is keeping everything together and on track. I am surprisingly really looking forward to seeing how this all pans out in Act 3, or when Polonius gets whats coming to him.
Polonius:Schemeing against his son he hired a spy to go lie about his behavior and see what he is up to in Paris.Hamlet seems to despise him(makes clever remarks at his expense all the time). Has gotten the King and Queen in on his scheme against Hamlet. Very protective of Ophelia?
Claudius: "Concerned" for Hamlets health and well-being, (though its probably selfish because they secretly hire people to spy on him). Appears to want to get to the bottom of Hamlets emotions quickly.
Gertrude:Seems genuinely concerned for Hamlet, (though she rightfully notes it could be the death and her quick marriage). Pleads with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to help Hamlet get back to his old self.
Rosencrantz/Guildenstern- Two of Hamlets friends from the past, and supposedly still dear to him. Summoned by the King and Queen to spend time with Hamlet and see what is bothering him. They immediately fail and tell Hamlet they were called in to help him. That might show loyalty and honesty??
Ophelia- Deeply troubled after Hamlet barges into her room and starts going crazy.Struggling with her father and brothers instructions and her love for Hamlet.
Personal Response
This Act was interesting to me at first, but it soon started to get on my nerves. There is so much secrecy and scheming going on there's no question this won't turn out well. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern quickly became some of my favorite characters, simply because they were the only characters that had nothing to hide.This Polonius character, is obviously a rude and arrogant idiot. He is literally plotting against almost all of the characters I mentioned. I don't understand how he is keeping everything together and on track. I am surprisingly really looking forward to seeing how this all pans out in Act 3, or when Polonius gets whats coming to him.
Act 2 Clarification Questions and Key Passages
Clarification Questions:
Why is Polonius sending Ronaldo to Paris?
What is Hamlet truly upset about when he starlets and shakes Ophelia?
What are the King and Queen trying to do to find out what is wrong with Hamlet?
Why does Hamlet feel the need to come up with a scheme to trick the King?
Key Passages:
Act 2 Scene 1 Lines 85-135
Ophelia tells her father that Hamlet came to her acting very strange and they decide it is because he is heartbroken and go to tell the king.
This passage shows the beginning of a misunderstanding and the attempts to change Hamlet. It also shows the difference between Ophelia's worry about Hamlet because she cares about him, and Polonius's greedy nature to be in the King's favor.
Act 2 Scene 2 Lines 575-635
Hamlet plots to find out if Claudius really did kill his father.
This is important because it shows hamlet really unravelling and becoming crazier the more he stresses out about everything. It is also foreshadowing what Hamlet will do next.
Personal Reaction:
I thinks everyone is deceiving others too much. If they would just sit down and talk straight to each other they could easily resolve all these problems. But they won't, because humans choose to go behind others backs and try to do whatever they think is best.
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
4) Themes- Stereotypical sex roles
During act 1, Prince Hamlet learns that his mother has quickly remarried and the prince is repulsed by it. This leads him to begin fostering a hatred of all women. He sees them as corrupt and sex driven. His altered view of women makes him blind to everything but his contempt, setting them up for an even more controlled life. He sees women as basically as possible, believing they have no more to offer other than sex.
Personal reaction: I liked act one, and I'm curious to find out if the ghost really was King Hamlet. After seeing how cheerful Gertrude was, I wonder if she wanted King Hamlet dead too, and she might have helped kill him. This led me to wonder if there was some sort of affair that prompted the over throw of King Hamlet. I feel like the ghost's true identity is irrelevant and is there solely to symbolize the mysterious afterlife and to ask the question of what we believe, and how confident we are in our beliefs.
Personal reaction: I liked act one, and I'm curious to find out if the ghost really was King Hamlet. After seeing how cheerful Gertrude was, I wonder if she wanted King Hamlet dead too, and she might have helped kill him. This led me to wonder if there was some sort of affair that prompted the over throw of King Hamlet. I feel like the ghost's true identity is irrelevant and is there solely to symbolize the mysterious afterlife and to ask the question of what we believe, and how confident we are in our beliefs.
5) Allusions
1. Satyr/Hercules/Nemean Lion
These 3 are Greek mythology allusions. The satyr is used to describe the relationship between his dead father and his uncle. Since a satyr is less than a God and the King is the "satyr", Hamelt is saying that his father was greater than his uncle will ever be. He is using the same concept when speaking of Hercules except he is then comparing his self to his father. His reference to the Nemean Lion is about the courage he had because the Nemean Lion was a monster that went up against Hercules.
2. Julius Caesar
Horatio compares the omen of the ghost as the omens that happened before the assassination of Julius Caesar. He sees the ghost as being an omen to violence and turmoil for Denmark. This has to be foreshadowing in some sense.
3. Religious Allusions
The story of Cain and Abel is an allusion to what we know so far in Hamlet. Cain wanted to kill his brother, more than likely of jealousy, just as the King killed his brother. It has not yet been revealed why the King killed his brother.
Personal Reaction: After going over the story in class I began to understand the story much better. Reading through the 1st time I could not really understand what was happening and did not know who the characters were. I predict that the ghost is not truly the old king and that it will deceive everyone causing the tragedy in the end.
These 3 are Greek mythology allusions. The satyr is used to describe the relationship between his dead father and his uncle. Since a satyr is less than a God and the King is the "satyr", Hamelt is saying that his father was greater than his uncle will ever be. He is using the same concept when speaking of Hercules except he is then comparing his self to his father. His reference to the Nemean Lion is about the courage he had because the Nemean Lion was a monster that went up against Hercules.
2. Julius Caesar
Horatio compares the omen of the ghost as the omens that happened before the assassination of Julius Caesar. He sees the ghost as being an omen to violence and turmoil for Denmark. This has to be foreshadowing in some sense.
3. Religious Allusions
The story of Cain and Abel is an allusion to what we know so far in Hamlet. Cain wanted to kill his brother, more than likely of jealousy, just as the King killed his brother. It has not yet been revealed why the King killed his brother.
Personal Reaction: After going over the story in class I began to understand the story much better. Reading through the 1st time I could not really understand what was happening and did not know who the characters were. I predict that the ghost is not truly the old king and that it will deceive everyone causing the tragedy in the end.
2) Clarification Questions & 3) Key Passages
Act 1:
2. ) Clarification Questions
Why do you think the ghost would not talk to the watchmen when they confronted him?
Why do you think Claudius believes everyone approves of his marriage to his ex- sister in law Gertrude?
In Act 1, Scene 2, why do you think Claudius is so quick to scold Hamlet for mourning his father?
Why do you think Hamlet suspects the armor on his fathers ghost suggests foul play?
In Act 1, Scene 3, Why are Laertes and Polonius so insistent that Ophelia stay away from Hamlet?
Do you believe that Gertrude was an accomplice in the kings murder?
3.) Key Passages
Act 1 Scene 2 Lines 72-123
Act 1 Scene 5 Lines 49-86
Personal Reflection:
I enjoyed the first act once I finally realized what the characters were actually saying. I don't trust the Ghost at all though, the fact that it would only talk to Hamlet and that it's only purpose is to seek revenge seems unsettling since the King is described by the characters as a pretty good guy. I think that Laertus and Polonius know something about the kings murder and that's why they don't want Ophelia getting close to Hamlet. I think that one of the watchmen will end up letting something slip about the ghost, so that's only going to end badly. But from what I can tell, this is going to be one of the better Shakespeare works that I have read, and hopefully it wont bore me to death like some of the others i've read.
2. ) Clarification Questions
Why do you think the ghost would not talk to the watchmen when they confronted him?
Why do you think Claudius believes everyone approves of his marriage to his ex- sister in law Gertrude?
In Act 1, Scene 2, why do you think Claudius is so quick to scold Hamlet for mourning his father?
Why do you think Hamlet suspects the armor on his fathers ghost suggests foul play?
In Act 1, Scene 3, Why are Laertes and Polonius so insistent that Ophelia stay away from Hamlet?
Do you believe that Gertrude was an accomplice in the kings murder?
3.) Key Passages
Act 1 Scene 2 Lines 72-123
- In this passage Hamlet is confronted by both his mother and uncle and bluntly told that he should get over the death of his father and just accept the fact that his uncle is now his dad. When Hamlet tries to explain that he is going through a mourning process, he is made to feel weak and less manly by his uncle/dad and eventually agrees to stop sulking around.
- In this passage Laertus urges Ophelia to stay away from Hamlet and to not accept any of his advances. He says that anything Hamlet says to her is meaningless, because he is just a boy whose mind is misguided by desires and the country will never allow him to have an actual relationship.
Act 1 Scene 5 Lines 49-86
- In this passage the Kings ghost reveals the true nature of his death to his son and acts him to exact revenge upon his murderer.
Personal Reflection:
I enjoyed the first act once I finally realized what the characters were actually saying. I don't trust the Ghost at all though, the fact that it would only talk to Hamlet and that it's only purpose is to seek revenge seems unsettling since the King is described by the characters as a pretty good guy. I think that Laertus and Polonius know something about the kings murder and that's why they don't want Ophelia getting close to Hamlet. I think that one of the watchmen will end up letting something slip about the ghost, so that's only going to end badly. But from what I can tell, this is going to be one of the better Shakespeare works that I have read, and hopefully it wont bore me to death like some of the others i've read.
6)Language
1.)Dirge- a funeral song or tone, or one expressing in commemoration of the dead.
-This word added sarcasm and bitterness to the conversation or dialogue, because he was talking about the new marriage.
2.)Truncheon-a short club representing an office or authority.
-Was used to clearify the distance the ghost had come to the guards in the previous nights.( I took it, that meant they were all real close to each other.)
3.)Libertine-a person who is morally or sexually unrestrained
-Maybe used as a metaphor, to compare someone to a puffed and reckless libertine?
4.)Plausive- pleasing
-Seems like it was just an adjective to describe how Hamlet felt when these men displayed manners?
5.)Lethe Wharf- the shores of Lethe, a river in Hades, the waters which provided complete forgetfulness to departed souls.
-Described hell and what the ghost would have to go through after he departed. Hamlet seems to be very upset. (If this is right, it seems appropriate)
Guys this was difficult, if these are all completely wrong, my bad!:)
Personal Reaction
-I didn't like the beginning of Hamlet, I thought it was too much to throw at a person all at once. Thanks to my book( has some language translations and clarifications) and our class discussions I knew enough about the characters to get through the first act. But if you were a fan of Shakespeare and just picked up this play I don't think you would enjoy it that much. All these characters were being mentioned and coming in and out of the scene and I didn't have a clue who they were or their importance to the story. I think from what we have already read it is obvious that Ophelia will still be interested in Hamlet and that relationship might end up causing some trouble for the two, but other then that I couldn't really figure these characters out. I did however, wonder if the guards will keep the ghost appearance a secret. If they told the wrong person that could put them and Hamlet in danger.
-This word added sarcasm and bitterness to the conversation or dialogue, because he was talking about the new marriage.
2.)Truncheon-a short club representing an office or authority.
-Was used to clearify the distance the ghost had come to the guards in the previous nights.( I took it, that meant they were all real close to each other.)
3.)Libertine-a person who is morally or sexually unrestrained
-Maybe used as a metaphor, to compare someone to a puffed and reckless libertine?
4.)Plausive- pleasing
-Seems like it was just an adjective to describe how Hamlet felt when these men displayed manners?
5.)Lethe Wharf- the shores of Lethe, a river in Hades, the waters which provided complete forgetfulness to departed souls.
-Described hell and what the ghost would have to go through after he departed. Hamlet seems to be very upset. (If this is right, it seems appropriate)
Guys this was difficult, if these are all completely wrong, my bad!:)
Personal Reaction
-I didn't like the beginning of Hamlet, I thought it was too much to throw at a person all at once. Thanks to my book( has some language translations and clarifications) and our class discussions I knew enough about the characters to get through the first act. But if you were a fan of Shakespeare and just picked up this play I don't think you would enjoy it that much. All these characters were being mentioned and coming in and out of the scene and I didn't have a clue who they were or their importance to the story. I think from what we have already read it is obvious that Ophelia will still be interested in Hamlet and that relationship might end up causing some trouble for the two, but other then that I couldn't really figure these characters out. I did however, wonder if the guards will keep the ghost appearance a secret. If they told the wrong person that could put them and Hamlet in danger.
1) Who's who
Hamlet: The son of King Hamlet and Queen Gertrude. He was away at school when his father died. By the time he returned home, his mother had married his uncle Claudius and was not grieving their loss at all. Hamlet is discusted by this and acts melancholy and bitter towards them. He loves Ophelia, his best friend is Horatio. Hamlet talks the a ghost that looks like his dead father, he finds out that his uncle killed his father and vows to avenge his death.
Claudius: King Hamlets brother and Prince Hamlets uncle. He kills the king and marries his sister-in-law to gain power. he is not mourning the death of the king and tells hamlet to get over it. He does not understand Hamlet and is manipulative. His advisor is Polonius.
Gertrude: Not of the royal line. Mother of Prince Hamlet. Married King Hamlet, shows no greif at his death, shortly afterwards, she marries her brother-in-law, the new king.
Polonius: Claudius' advisor. Not of the royal line. Father of Ophelia and Laertes.
Ophelia: Daughter of Polonius, sister of Laertes. In love with Hamlet. Her actions are controled by her brother and father, who want the maintain their social status, if she sleeps with Hamlet, she will be unfit for anyone to marry.
Laertes: Son of Polonius, brother of Ophelia. Controling of his sister. Spends a lot of time in France. Impulsive.
Horatio: Hamlet's best friend, comes from their school for the Kings funeral. Tells Hamlet about seeing the ghost of the king.
Ghost: Looks like the king. Tells Hamlet that he was killed by his brother. Commands Hamlet to seek revenge.
Personal Reflection: I thought that King Claudius and Gertrude were conspiring to kill King Hamlet. It seemed like the way they weren't sad and acted like newly weds made me think they had an affair before Henry died. I also think the ghost isn't really the dead king, just because we keep talking about that in class. I guess that Hamlet will try and get back at Claudius for killing his father and because it was the devil and not the ghost, he will be cursed. I think Ophelia will be the reason Hamlet doesn't want to kill himself.
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