View a FREE sample

This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Act 4, Scene 1.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. When Claudius finds out Hamlet has killed someone, what is he most worried about?
(a) Whether the murder will affect his power and ability to rule.
(b) Whether Hamlet will try to kill.
(c) Whether Hamlet should stand trial.
(d) Whether a doctor can help Hamlet get better.

2. What is the first part of the players' performance in Act 3, Scene 2?
(a) A welcoming speech by their sponsor, Prince Hamlet.
(b) An opening scene that shows how much the king and queen love each other.
(c) A prologue, in which they summarize the upcoming play.
(d) A dumbshow, in which they do not speak.

3. What other "crime" has been committed against the last king?
(a) Laertes seduced his wife.
(b) Polonius stole from the state treasury.
(c) Claudius stole from the state treasury.
(d) Claudius seduced his wife.

4. What does Polonius say is the most important thing for Laertes to remember as he leaves Elsinore?
(a) Do well in school.
(b) Do not borrow money.
(c) Do not talk too much.
(d) Be true to yourself.

5. At the end of the first act, what does Hamlet warn his friends he might do?
(a) Pretend to be crazy.
(b) Get married.
(c) Kill somebody.
(d) Leave the country forever.

Short Answer Questions

1. When the play shows a king being poisoned, how does the current king, Claudius, react?

2. When he is giving Laertes advice, what does Polonius say about friends?

3. What does Hamlet mean when he says "I will speak daggers to her, but use none."

4. What does Polonius tell Laertes about borrowing money?

5. Before the play is performed, Hamlet has a long conversation with the First Player. What is he telling the Player?

(see the answer key)

This section contains 434 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample