Hamlet 1.2 Incestuous

The video explores Hamlet's view on Gertrude's marriage to Claudius, considered incestuous by both Catholic and Protestant churches. It discusses how Shakespeare's audience might have perceived this union, noting that royal exceptions were often made for political reasons. The video draws parallels to Henry VIII's marriage to Catherine of Aragon, highlighting the historical context and political implications. Shakespeare uses this to remind audiences of similar events in English history.

How did both Catholic and Protestant churches view the marriage of a widow to her deceased husband's brother during Shakespeare's time?

• As a political necessity

• As a romantic gesture

• As a normal practice

• As an incestuous and sinful act

What historical event does the video compare to Gertrude's marriage to Claudius?

• The marriage of King James I

• The marriage of Queen Elizabeth I

• The marriage of Richard III

• The marriage of Henry the Eighth to Catherine of Aragon

Why did Henry the Eighth need special permission from the Pope to marry Catherine of Aragon?

• Because she was already married

• Because she was his deceased brother's widow

• Because she was from a rival country

• Because she was a commoner

What does Shakespeare imply by using the term 'incestuous' in Hamlet?

• That the marriage is politically motivated

• That the marriage is a romantic union

• That the marriage is a common practice

• That the marriage is shamefully sinful

What does Shakespeare want the audience to recall by mentioning the term 'incestuous'?

• The religious practices of the time

• The economic conditions of Denmark

• The love story of Hamlet and Ophelia

• Recent political events similar to the play's context