Hamlet 1.5 Dig Deeper: The Ghost's Vocabulary

The transcript discusses the themes of atonement and purgatory, highlighting the use of archaic language in Shakespeare's works, particularly in the ghost's speech. It also explores the wordplay and imagery used to convey deeper meanings, such as the metaphor of a blossom to describe King Hamlet's untimely death.

Why must the character atone for his sins in purgatory?

• He was forgiven by the king.

• He did not have the chance to confess his sins.

• He was absolved of his sins.

• He confessed his sins before dying.

What effect do the rare and exotic words in the ghost's speech have?

• They simplify the ghost's message.

• They make the ghost's speech humorous.

• They make the ghost seem more human.

• They add to the ghost's mystery and otherworldliness.

What is the significance of the phrase 'cut off in the blossoms of my sin'?

• It shows the king was old and wise.

• It implies the king was killed while his sins were still impactful.

• It indicates the king's sins were minor.

• It suggests the king was forgiven.

How does Shakespeare use the image of a blossom in relation to King Hamlet?

• To describe the king's wealth.

• To illustrate the king's old age.

• To depict the king as a flower in full bloom, cut off prematurely.

• To show the king's sins were forgiven.

What dual nature does the image of the blossom convey?

• It is both negative and bittersweet.

• It is both positive and irrelevant.

• It is both positive and humorous.

• It is both negative and humorous.