View a FREE sample

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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What does Polonius tell Gertrude to do in Act 3, Scene 4 regarding Hamlet?
(a) Make sure Hamlet knows that Polonius is listening to their conversation.
(b) Be kind to Hamlet and invite him to confide in her.
(c) Convince Hamlet to talk about Ophelia.
(d) Be stern with Hamlet about his behavior.

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

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

4. In Act 2, Scene 2, what happens when Polonius first tries to speak to Hamlet?
(a) Hamlet is glad to see him.
(b) Hamlet ignores him.
(c) Hamlet argues with him.
(d) Hamlet does not seem to recognize him.

5. At the end of Act 2, Scene 2, what does Hamlet reveal about his reasons for wanting the players to perform?
(a) He thinks the play will distract him.
(b) He wants to use the play to test Claudius's conscience.
(c) He thinks the play will remind Gertrude of her first husband.
(d) He thinks the players are very talented.

Short Answer Questions

1. During "The Mousetrap," Gertrude says, "The lady protests too much, methinks." What is she talking about?

2. What specific thing does Hamlet determine Claudius must do before Hamlet can murder him?

3. Hamlet's mother tries to leave the room during their conversation in Act 3, Scene 4, but Hamlet stops her and says she cannot leave until he does what?

4. How does Hamlet manage to avoid his fate in England?

5. As they wait for the ghost, Hamlet describes the King's nightly tradition. What does Hamlet think about this tradition?

(see the answer key)

This section contains 437 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample