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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Act 4, Scene 3.

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

3. Polonius gives Reynaldo very specific instructions about how to find the information he wants. What are those instructions?
(a) Talk to the local police department.
(b) Ask his son's friends and teachers.
(c) Ask his son directly.
(d) Lie about him if that helps bring out the truth.

4. Where does Act 1, Scene 4 take place?
(a) In Hamlet's bedroom.
(b) On the platform.
(c) On a ship.
(d) In the throne room.

5. Claudius finally gives Rosencrantz and Guildenstern sealed orders for how to handle Hamlet. What do those orders say?
(a) Hamlet should be put on trial for murder.
(b) Hamlet should be exiled from Denmark.
(c) Hamlet should be locked away forever.
(d) Hamlet should be put to death.

Short Answer Questions

1. When Hamlet visits his mother in her room in Act 3, Scene 4, he speaks very harshly to his mother. What makes him stop?

2. What is the King doing during Act 1, Scene 4?

3. After the play, Claudius meets with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to discuss Hamlet's condition. Are Rosencrantz and Guildenstern more sympathetic to Claudius, Hamlet, or someone else?

4. In Act 1, Scene 2, what two events does Claudius describe?

5. Hamlet makes an ominous statement about married people: "those that are married already, all but one, shall live." What does that mean and who is he talking about?

(see the answer key)

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