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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Act 2, Scene 2.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is the public explanation of the last king's death?
(a) He was stung by a serpent.
(b) He died in his sleep.
(c) He was stabbed.
(d) He had a heart attack.

2. In Act 2, Scene 1, why is Ophelia frightened?
(a) She saw Hamlet slap Gertrude in the face.
(b) She saw the ghost talking to Hamlet.
(c) She saw a fight between Claudius and Hamlet.
(d) She had an unpleasant encounter with Hamlet.

3. What shocking news does the ghost deliver to Hamlet in Act 1, Scene 5?
(a) Claudius killed Hamlet's father.
(b) Laertes killed Hamlet's father.
(c) Hamlet's mother killed Hamlet's father.
(d) Ophelia killed Hamlet's father.

4. In Act 2, Scene 1, what does Ophelia say about the look on Hamlet's face?
(a) He looked like he was ready to cry.
(b) He looked like he had seen a ghost.
(c) He looked like he wanted to kiss her.
(d) He looked like he came out of Hell.

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

Short Answer Questions

1. In Act 2, Scene 2, what happens when Polonius first tries to speak to Hamlet?

2. After hearing about Hamlet's strange behavior, what does Polonius say about his own decisions?

3. How many times does the ghost appear in Act 1, Scene 1?

4. Once Hamlet follows the ghost, what do Hamlet's friends decide to do?

5. Hamlet says "The time is out of joint: O cursed spite/ That ever I was born to set it right!" What does that mean?

(see the answer key)

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