1. In Act 1, Scene 3, where is Laertes going?
(a) To live in another country.
(b) Off to war.
(c) To go to a new school.
(d) Back to college.

2. What does Hamlet say when he first hears about the ghost?
(a) He wants to talk to it.
(b) He wants it to leave him alone.
(c) He does not believe it exists.
(d) He thinks Horatio is inventing it to distract him.

3. What does Horatio say the ghost might do to Hamlet?
(a) Curse him.
(b) Bless him.
(c) Drive him crazy.
(d) Kill him.

4. After hearing Ophelia's description of Hamlet, what reason does Polonius suggest for Hamlet's strange behavior?
(a) Hamlet has always been a strange boy and his father's death has driven him insane.
(b) Hamlet is mad with love for Ophelia.
(c) Hamlet is taking his father's death too hard.
(d) Hamlet has studied too hard at school.

5. Early in the play, what country does Claudius send messengers to?
(a) Norway.
(b) Denmark.
(c) England.
(d) France.

Short Answer Questions

1. When the audience first sees Claudius, he gives a speech about the current situation in Denmark and then speaks to Hamlet about his behavior. What does Claudius say to Hamlet at this early point in the play?

2. During his first soliloquy, what does Hamlet say about his mother?

3. When Hamlet first sees the ghost, what does he call it?

4. Before he returns to school, what does Laertes tell Ophelia about her boyfriend?

5. What does Hamlet tell his friends about his meeting with the ghost?

(see the answer key)

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