Hamlet 3.1 "I Loved You Not"

The transcript explores Hamlet's complex relationship with Ophelia, focusing on his contradictory statements about love and virtue. Hamlet uses a metaphor to explain that virtue cannot completely change one's sinful nature, reflecting on Christian beliefs. He later denies loving Ophelia, leading to her feeling deceived. The conversation is layered with irony and deception, possibly orchestrated by Polonius.

What reason does Hamlet give for why Ophelia should not have believed his love?

• He was not completely virtuous.

• He was in love with someone else.

• He was afraid of commitment.

• He was under a spell.

What does the metaphor of grafting in Hamlet's speech suggest?

• Virtue can completely change one's nature.

• Virtue cannot completely change one's original sinful nature.

• Virtue is easily acquired.

• Virtue is irrelevant to one's nature.

According to the Christian tradition mentioned, what persists despite attempts to impose virtue?

• Divine intervention

• Innocence

• Complete virtue

• Original sin

How does Ophelia feel upon hearing that Hamlet never loved her?

• Amused

• Indifferent

• Deceived and disappointed

• Relieved

What might be Hamlet's purpose in deceiving Ophelia?

• To confuse Claudius

• To gain power

• To win her love

• To seek revenge