Hamlet 1.5 Language: Spheres

The transcript discusses the ghost's terrifying impact on Hamlet, using vivid imagery to describe his fear. It explains the metaphor of stars leaving their spheres, a concept rooted in pre-Galilean and Newtonian beliefs about the cosmos. The ghost's message to Hamlet is portrayed as both frightening and unnatural, challenging the established order of the universe.

What does the ghost suggest would happen to Hamlet if he learned about purgatory?

• He would start laughing uncontrollably.

• He would fall asleep.

• His hair would stand up and his eyes would pop out.

• He would become very happy.

What does the term 'start from their spheres' imply in the context of the ghost's speech?

• To become invisible.

• To fall asleep.

• To jump and be startled.

• To begin a new journey.

Before the time of Galileo and Newton, how were stars believed to be positioned?

• Moving in straight lines.

• Freely floating in space.

• Fixed on a giant sphere rotating around the Earth.

• Stationary in the sky.

What does the ghost imply about the natural order by mentioning stars falling out of their orbit?

• It would be a natural phenomenon.

• It would be a disruption of the natural order.

• It would be a common occurrence.

• It would be a sign of good luck.

What is the ghost's main concern about revealing purgatory to Hamlet?

• It would make Hamlet laugh.

• It would be against the natural order and terrifying.

• It would make Hamlet very happy.

• It would make Hamlet fall asleep.