Hamlet - Retrieval Questions 2

Name a defining trait of a tragedy.

A tragedy includes a hero with a tragic fate and usually dies in the end.

Define 'hamartia'.

A fatal flaw

What is the name of the Roman Playwright that developed the genre of tragedy?

Seneca

What are Shakespeare's later tragedies based on, instead of just action and violence?

Human psychology and emotions.

Which revenge tragedy by Thomas Kyd is Hamlet similar to?

The Spanish Tragedy

During Shakespeare's time, what was society fearful of?

The supernatural.

Why was the fear of supernatural at the time relevant to Hamlet?

Because the play begins with a ghost.

What are the opening words of Hamlet?

'Who's there?'

What time of the day does the play begin? Provide a quotation.

At night. The clock 'Tis now struck twelve'.

Why do Bernardo and Marcellus ask Horatio to accompany them while they are on guard?

Because they have seen a ghost and Horatio does not believe them because he is a skeptic. He is also more knowledgeable than them and they believe he will be able to provide them with answers.

Define 'in media res'

The play begins in the middle of events.

What happened between Old Hamlet and King Fortinbras?

Old Hamlet killed King Fortinbras

How is the ghost dressed at the beginning of the play?

The ghost is dressed in armour.

During scene 1, how does Horatio's behaviour change towards the ghost?

He changes from dismissive to fearful.

Who does Horatio decide to tell about the ghost?

Hamlet

Why does Horatio decide to tell Hamlet about the ghost?

Because the ghost looks like Hamlet's father and he wants to see if the ghost will talk to him.

Give an example of a dramatic technique Shakespeare utilises to make the beginning of the play effective?

The use of the ghost as a symbol.
Short sentences.
The use of costume (the ghost dressed in armour)
The use of noise (the clock, the crow)

How does the opening of scene 2 contrast the opening of scene 1?

Scene 1 - outside setting, use of short sentences, sense of panic and distrust
Scene 2 - inside court setting, use of long sentences, calm and controlled atmosphere

What type of person is Claudius?

A powerful, manipulative leader, but a good diplomat as he is articulate and flattering.

Why was there uncertainty as Queen Elizabeth I was getting older?

She had not announced an heir and it was unsure who would take the throne once she dies.