Hamlet Discussion Questions

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(Score for Question 1: ___ of 20 points)
1. Explain both the literal and symbolic meaning and importance of pouring poison in a person’s ear in Hamlet.
Answer:
Literal meaning: The literal meaning of the poison would be the death of the elder Hamlet,
Quote (with citation): “I have words to speak in thine ear will make thee dumb” (IV.vi.21).
Symbolic meaning: the poison is a symbol for deceit, betrayal, jealousy, corruption and most importantly
Quote (with citation): "Upon my secure hour thy uncle stole, with juice of cursed hebenon in a vial and in the porches of mine ears did pour the leprous distilment; whose effect ......." (1V.61-64) (Score for Question 2: ___ of 25 points)
2. What purpose do the soliloquies that Hamlet delivers over the course of the play serve? What do readers and …show more content…
inaction:
Relationship between Laertes and the theme of sanity vs. madness:
Hamlet and Fortinbras:
Similarities between Hamlet and Fortinbras:
Differences between Hamlet and Fortinbras:
Traits in Hamlet’s character Fortinbras highlights/exposes:
Specific example from the play that shows this (cited):
Relationship between Fortinbras and the theme of advice and duty:
Relationship between Fortinbras and the theme of action vs. inaction:
Relationship between Fortinbras and the theme of sanity vs. madness: Score for Question 5: ___ of 55 points)
5. Why is the idea of playing a role or acting a part so important to Hamlet over the course of the play? How does role-playing affect several major events in the plot and the relationships between various characters?
Answer:
Importance of the idea of playing a role or acting a part:
How role-playing affects one character:
Quote (with citation):
How role-playing affects a second character:
Quote (with

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