Shakespeare Today: Hamlet - Act 4 Summary

In Act 4 of Hamlet, Claudius is alarmed by Polonius's death and sends Hamlet to England, secretly plotting his murder. Hamlet reflects on his indecision after encountering Fortinbras's army. Ophelia descends into madness following her father's death, and Laertes returns seeking revenge. Claudius and Laertes conspire to kill Hamlet in a rigged fencing match. Ophelia's suicide adds to the tragedy as the act concludes.

What is the significance of Fortinbras in Hamlet's reflections?

What causes Ophelia's descent into madness?