Hamlet's Madness and Method

In a lively discussion at the Duck and Whistle, actors Thomas Swann and Robert Harley, along with Bess and Mr. Will, explore the question of whether Hamlet is truly mad or just pretending. They delve into the method behind Hamlet's madness, citing Polonius's famous line about method in madness. Personal anecdotes are shared to illustrate the concept of method in madness. The discussion concludes with the consensus that Hamlet is not genuinely mad but strategically feigning insanity to uncover the truth about his father's death.

Where are Thomas Swann and Robert Harley having a drink?

• The King's Head

• The Duck and Whistle

• The Swan and Crown

• The Shakespeare Tavern

What is the big question in Hamlet for Thomas?

• What is Hamlet's favorite color?

• Is Hamlet truly mad?

• Who killed Hamlet's father?

• Why is Hamlet sad?

What is the main reason Hamlet pretends to be mad?

• To gain sympathy from others

• To confuse his enemies

• To entertain himself

• To uncover the truth about his father's death

Who believes that Hamlet's madness has a method?

• Polonius

• Robert Harley

• Bess

• Thomas Swann

Who is a big fan of Mr. Will?

• Thomas Swann

• Robert Harley

• Bess

• Polonius

What does Hamlet talk about that makes people think he's mad?

• Flying pigs

• Talking trees

• Maggots in dogs

• Dancing stars

What does Bess think about Hamlet's madness?

• He is confused

• He is pretending

• He is unaware

• He is truly mad

What does Hamlet say that makes Polonius think there is method in his madness?

• Maggots in dogs

• The moon turning red

• Crabs walking backward

• The sun rising in the west

What does Polonius fail to realize about Hamlet's words?

• They are compliments

• They are riddles

• They are insults

• They are jokes

What sport did the speaker's dad try to find method in his madness?

• Baseball

• Snooker

• Basketball

• Rugby