- What do we discover about Hamlet's true feelings towards Ophelia?
- Was the King's reaction to the play what you anticipated it to be at the end of Act 2? Why or why not?
- Do you think Hamlet purposely killed Polonius?
- Is King Claudius remorseful for his actions? Why or why not?
- Did Hamlet truly accomplish what he intended to?
Personal Reaction:
This Act in the book really draws the readers attention. It isn't just another act that keeps us guessing about what will happen next. Hamlet got the reaction he was hoping for out of his uncle by putting on the play and it seems kind of fitting that his uncle is in an absolute out roar about the whole situation simply because of his own guilt. I feel bad in a sense for Hamlet due to the fact that everyone thinks he's lost his mind when all he seeks to do is avenge the death of his father. I just can't begin to imagine trying to explain to my mom, in his particular situation, what has happened. I think Hamlet feels no only betrayed but alone in a sense that everyone seems to be against him or in the plot to stop the way he was acting. I hate now that Hamlet will be accused of the murder of Polonius, an already sneaky character, whom I believed needed to die, as bad as that sounds.
John's answer to #2
ReplyDeleteI think King Claudius is remorseful for what he does. He wants to pray for forgiveness but then he doesn't see himself worthy enough to pray due to his wrongful deeds. On the other hand of this, he doesn't want to confess this to the people of the earth because he is afraid of losing his worldly things, which is ultimately very selfish. I think he feels very bad about his wrongdoing but he has waited too late to apologize and admit his crime and pay the punishment for it.
Carli: Answer to #3
ReplyDeleteI don't think he purposely meant to kill Polonius specifically, but if he stabbed the curtain and knew there was someone behind it, he obviously meant to kill. But I think he was hoping it was the King to relieve that pressure he felt to avenge his father and kill the king. He could kind of have an excuse towards everyone else, and not seem as guilty but at the same time getting his task accomplished.
Matt's answer to #4:
ReplyDeleteKing Claudius is clearly remorseful after finishing Act 3. He interrupts the play and brought it an abrupt end. He was overwhelmed with guilt and then the he goes to pray where the reader finds out for the first time his true thoughts on his cruel actions. He was distraught in his thoughts to the Lord, and he himself is unsure of his faith and fate. He murdered his own brother because of his greed and lust. Now he has had time to realize some of the consequences he might face in the future. After watching the play, he should also now be aware that Hamlet is very suspicious of him. The mini-play forced him to recall the severity of his actions once more and he confirmed Hamlet's theory by his reaction.