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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. After welcoming them to Elsinore, what does Claudius ask Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to do?
(a) Cheer Hamlet up and find out what is wrong with him.
(b) Watch Hamlet and make sure he does not hurt anyone.
(c) Convince Fortinbras not to attack Denmark.
(d) Convince Hamlet to go back to school.

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. When Polonius tries to speak with Hamlet, does Polonius really believe Hamlet is crazy?
(a) Yes, Polonius says Hamlet is totally insane.
(b) Not entirely -- Polonius sees some reason or logic within the craziness.
(c) Yes, but Polonius thinks it is easily cured.
(d) No, Polonius does not think Hamlet is crazy at all.

4. What message do the ambassadors bring Claudius back from Norway?
(a) Fortinbras will attack Poland, not Denmark.
(b) Fortinbras does not plan to attack any country at all.
(c) Fortinbras wants to take over Denmark.
(d) Fortinbras wants to take over Denmark and Poland.

5. What does Polonius tell Laertes about borrowing money?
(a) Borrowing money is all right, but do not lend money.
(b) Do not borrow money, but lend money if you can.
(c) Do not borrow or lend money.
(d) Borrowing and lending money is a good thing to do.

Short Answer Questions

1. In Act 1, Scene 3, before Laertes leaves Elsinore, Polonius gives him advice about clothes. What does Polonius say?

2. Why does Hamlet talk to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern about a recorder?

3. In their first conversation together, what important information does Hamlet reveal to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?

4. At the end of the first act, what does Hamlet warn his friends he might do?

5. After the play is performed, what does Polonius ask Hamlet to do?

(see the answer key)

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