Hamlet 1.3 Why It's Cool

The video explores the parallel between Hamlet's family and Polonius's family, highlighting themes of revenge and love. It discusses the role of advice in the play, emphasizing the challenges of applying general advice to specific situations. Polonius's speech is analyzed for its proverbial content and use of blank verse, a poetic form used by Shakespeare. The video concludes with a discussion on Polonius's character and family dynamics, raising questions about his role as a father and advisor.

How does the relationship between Polonius and Laertes differ from that of Hamlet and his father?

• Polonius is a king, while Hamlet's father was a commoner.

• Laertes is motivated by love, while Hamlet is motivated by revenge.

• Laertes is Hamlet's brother, while Polonius is not.

• Polonius is alive, while Hamlet's father is dead.

What is a key challenge in applying advice according to the play?

• Advice is often given without full understanding of the situation.

• Advice is never practical.

• Advice is always ignored by the characters.

• Advice is always outdated.

What makes Shakespeare's version of proverbs different from the original ones?

• They are less meaningful.

• They are written in a different language.

• They contain more imagery and are more melodious.

• They are shorter and more concise.

What is blank verse?

• A type of rhymed poetry.

• Unrhymed iambic pentameter.

• A form of prose.

• A type of song.

In what context does Shakespeare typically use blank verse?

• In songs.

• In important or formal speeches.

• In informal conversations.

• In comedic scenes.

What question is raised about Ophelia's character?

• Is she too rebellious?

• Is she too ambitious?

• Is she too independent?

• Is she too docile and compliant?

How is Polonius's character perceived in the play?

• As a wise and respected advisor.

• As a comic relief character.

• As a villain.

• As a tragic hero.