Hamlet

Assignment to have been completed: Students should have read 3.3 of Hamlet while following the study guide questions.

Activities:

• A. Take attendance.

• B. Use the following questions (and answers) to facilitate a discussion of 3.3 of Hamlet.

  Act III, Scene iii

  • 1. What is the tone of Claudius’ opening speech? What is the tone of his speech in lines 40-76?

    Both his words and his brevity denote anxiety in his opening speech.

    In lines 40-76, Claudius confesses his guilt and contemplates something verging on regret - but not repentance. He earnestly wishes that this business with his nephew did not face him - which is to say, to that extent, he wishes he had not committed the murder. However, he is unwilling to give up the throne, the power, or the queen. Consequently, the tone may be best described as one of frustration and agonizing ambivalence.

  • 2. Why does Hamlet not take Claudius’ life when he has the chance?

    Hamlet believes Claudius is at prayer. To kill him now would assure the ascendancy of his soul to Heaven, especially if his prayer is one of confession [88-91]. Still, Hamlet contemplates on the fact that Claudius took his father’s soul unshriven [85-86].

    Ironically, Claudius is only going through the motions of prayer since it is not sincere [102-103].

Assignment for next class meeting: Read 3.4 of Hamlet. Prepare the corresponding study questions.