Understanding Hamlet: Setting The Scene

The video explores the opening scenes of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', focusing on the ghost of Hamlet's father and the emotional turmoil of Hamlet himself. A panel of experts discusses the implications of these scenes, including Hamlet's distress over his mother's remarriage and his famous soliloquy. The video also introduces Laertes and Polonius, highlighting the latter's duplicitous nature.

What convinces Horatio of the ghost's existence?

• Seeing the ghost himself

• Marcellus's insistence

• A dream he had

• A message from Hamlet

What is the ghost's purpose according to Horatio?

• To urge Hamlet to avenge his father's death

• To warn of an impending war

• To haunt the castle

• To find peace in the afterlife

Why is Hamlet upset at the beginning of the play?

• His father's death

• His mother's quick remarriage

• His loss of the throne

• His exile from Denmark

What is Hamlet's reaction to Claudius calling him 'my son'?

• He is confused

• He responds with irony

• He is indifferent

• He is pleased

What does Hamlet's attire symbolize when he first appears?

• His mourning

• His joy

• His rebellion

• His wealth

What is the significance of Polonius's advice to Laertes?

• It is a warning to Hamlet

• It reveals Polonius's duplicity

• It shows Polonius's wisdom

• It is irrelevant to the plot

What does Polonius plan to do after Laertes leaves?

• Ignore his actions

• Send spies to watch him

• Write him letters

• Visit him in person