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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. How does the dialogue change when Rosencrantz and Guildenstern speak with Claudius and Gertrude?
(a) They are too stunned to speak.
(b) They speak in riddles.
(c) The speak French.
(d) They use Shakespearean English.

2. If they discover what is troubling Hamlet, what does Rosencrantz want to know?
(a) Will they tell anyone?
(b) Will they get a large reward?
(c) Will they be free to go home?
(d) Will they have to do something else?

3. In what way is Rosencrantz defensive as he discusses the game with Guildenstern?
(a) He offers to give back all the coins.
(b) He suggests that guildenstern is trying to lose.
(c) He declares that he always has good luck at gambling.
(d) He points out that Guildenstern has done all the spinning.

4. What is Guildenstern's observation about their strange situation?
(a) That it is probably all a dream.
(b) That Claudius will explain everyting to them.
(c) That they are fortunate that they are presented with alternatives.
(d) That it will soon be over and they can go home.

5. What does Claudius request of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?
(a) To explain why they are there
(b) To play a game of coins
(c) To sing and dance
(d) To try to figure out what is bothering Hamlet

Short Answer Questions

1. What is Alfred's response when Guildenstern suggests they could set a dramatic precedent?

2. What is Rosencrantz's reaction to the way the game keeps going?

3. What exchange is there between Hamlet and Ophelia?

4. Why is the Player so happy to see the two men?

5. What type of play does the Player mention that comes at another cost?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Guildenstern say that emphasizes their helplessness in a situation they do not understand?

2. What is the Player's misconception about Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?

3. What type of show does the Player attempt to offer Rosencrantz and Guildenstern?

4. Describe the somewhat bizarre entrance of Hamlet and Ophelia.

5. Why are Guildenstern and Rosencrantz on this road and what has Guildenstern been expecting?

6. What things are troubling Rosencrantz as he and Guildenstern are once again left alone on the stage?

7. How does Guildenstern come across as the more intelligent of the two men?

8. Trying to make sense of their situation, to what does Guildenstern think back?

9. What does Guildenstern's comment that he is afraid today is his day mean?

10. How does Guildenstern attempt to change the subject away from the coins?

(see the answer keys)

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