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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. As Hamlet and the others wait to see the ghost in Act 1, Scene 4, what do they hear in the distance?
(a) Men shouting and women screaming.
(b) Trumpets being blown and ordinance being fired.
(c) A cock crowing.
(d) Drunken singing.

2. Hamlet says "The time is out of joint: O cursed spite/ That ever I was born to set it right!" What does that mean?
(a) He cannot believe what the ghost has told him.
(b) He wishes he did not have to do the things he expects to do.
(c) He wishes he was not born a prince.
(d) He cannot believe he has seen a ghost.

3. At the start of the play, what are Francisco and Bernardo doing?
(a) They are on watch.
(b) They are getting ready to go to sleep.
(c) They are fighting in a battle.
(d) They are eating a meal together.

4. Who is Ophelia in love with?
(a) Hamlet.
(b) Laertes.
(c) Polonius.
(d) Horatio.

5. What does Ophelia tell Laertes about his advice on her love life?
(a) Stop telling me what to do.
(b) You give bad advice.
(c) Make sure you follow your own advice.
(d) Your advice is very wise.

Short Answer Questions

1. Before he has seen the ghost, how does Hamlet describe his parents' marriage?

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

3. Who is Ophelia?

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

5. What is the public explanation of the last king's death?

(see the answer key)

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