HAMLET Act I, Scene 3 (pages 39-49)

Before leaving Elsinore castle for France to continue his studies, Laertes warns his sister Ophelia to be cautious & skeptical of her relationship with Prince Hamlet. What does NOT represent the meaning of

"He may not, as unvalued persons do, carve for himself, for on his choice depends the safety and the health of this whole state" (1.3.22-24).

• Hamlet's decisions are made FOR him NOT by him.

• Hamlet is not like other people; he's a PRINCE!

• Hamlet may not choose & enjoy a relationship like a commoner.

• Hamlet does not like Ophelia; he just pretends to enjoy her company.

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Generally, how does Laertes characterize Prince Hamlet to Ophelia?

• Hamlet is a public, not private, person.

• Hamlet is a terrible student.

• Hamlet is a scholar who excels at college.

• Hamlet just lost his father & made not be in his right mind.

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Polonius gives his son lots of advice before Laertes leaves for college. What does the following mean? "Give every man thy ear, but few thy voice" (1.3.73-74).

• Be helpful, but do not ask others for help.

• Be a good listener, but do not talk too much.

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Polonius gives his son lots of advice before Laertes leaves for college. What does the following mean?

"Neither a borrower nor a lender be, for loan oft loses both itself and friend" (1.3.81.82).

• Do not borrow or loan money to others because it may ruin relationships.

• Do not work in the banking industry because it will make you a public target for resentment.

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Polonius questions Ophelia's relationship with Prince Hamlet wanting to know the details, and ultimately tells her

"Be something scanter of your maiden presence," meaning what?

• Ophelia, keep a low profile and do not interact with Hamlet.

• Ophelia, do not encourage Hamlet by flirting or dressing up.

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Ultimately, Laertes & Polonius do not want Ophelia to be hurt by whom?

• Claudius

• Gertrude

• Young Fortinbras

• Prince Hamlet

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What is Ophelia's final response to Polonius's warnings concerning Prince Hamlet?

• "My lord, he hath importuned me with love in honorable fashion"

• "I do not know, my lord, what I should think"

• "I shall obey, my lord"

• "Tis is in my memory locked, and you yourself shall keep the key of it"

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