Week #11 Flashcard: Hamlet Act 1

Front

Who is the current King of Denmark?

Back

Claudius

Answer explanation

Claudius is the current King of Denmark in Shakespeare's play 'Hamlet'. He is the brother of the late King Hamlet and usurped the throne after the king's death.

Front

Who is Hamlet's mother and the woman also married to the current king?

Back

Gertrude

Answer explanation

Hamlet's mother is Gertrude, who is also married to Claudius, the current king of Denmark. Ophelia is Hamlet's love interest, while Osric and Rosencrantz are other characters in the play.

Front

Who is Hamlet's closest friend?

Back

Horatio

Answer explanation

Hamlet's closest friend is Horatio, who remains loyal and supportive throughout the play. Unlike other characters, Horatio provides Hamlet with a trusted confidant and is present during key moments, highlighting their strong bond.

Front

Who is the King's "right hand man"?

Back

Polonius

Answer explanation

Polonius is referred to as the King's "right hand man" in Shakespeare's play "Hamlet". He serves as the chief counselor to King Claudius, providing advice and support, which solidifies his role in the royal court.

Front

Which character returned to France to continue their studies?

Back

Laertes

Answer explanation

Laertes returned to France to continue his studies after the death of his father, Polonius. This decision is mentioned in Act 1, Scene 2 of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', highlighting his commitment to education.

Front

Who does the Ghost claim to be?

Back

Old Hamlet

Answer explanation

The Ghost in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' claims to be Old Hamlet, the deceased king and father of Prince Hamlet. This revelation is crucial as it sets the stage for Hamlet's quest for revenge against Claudius.

Front

In the play, Denmark was at war with ________. Options: Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Belgium

Back

Norway

Answer explanation

In the play, Denmark is at war with Norway, which is a key element of the plot. The conflict with Norway sets the stage for the events that unfold, making it the correct answer.

Front

Both Laertes and Polonius advise Ophelia to _______ Hamlet.

Back

stop seeing

Answer explanation

Both Laertes and Polonius express concern for Ophelia's relationship with Hamlet, advising her to stop seeing him due to his unpredictable behavior and their belief that he may not have genuine intentions.

Front

Hamlet is deeply disturbed by Gertrude _____________.

Back

marrying Claudius

Answer explanation

Hamlet is deeply disturbed by Gertrude marrying Claudius because it represents a betrayal of his father's memory and a hasty move after his father's death, which contributes to Hamlet's feelings of anger and disillusionment.

Front

Claudius *allegedly* killed his brother with: sword during a duel, poison , a candlestick in the conservatory, sticking him with a sword during his sleep

Back

poison

Answer explanation

Claudius allegedly killed his brother by pouring poison in his ear, a method that symbolizes treachery and deceit, rather than through direct confrontation like a duel or using a weapon.