3. Read p. 244-line 128 p. 245 and then Explain Claudius's purpose in his speech to Hamlet. Does he feel he accomplishes this purpose? Why or why not?
4. Although you may associate a play on words with lighthearted dialogue, characters may
use puns also to emphasize important ideas.
Read p. 249-253 (line 100-113) and then What point does Polonius want to make
through his play on the word tender? (line 104).
5. Use what you already know of human nature to infer what characters might be feeling
in certain situations. Read p. 253 (lines 132-137) and then. What ultimatum does
Polonius deliver to Ophelia?
6. Characters are developed not only through what they say and do but through other's
reaction to them. When differing views of the same character are presented, audiences
must weigh the evidence to decide which assessment is more valid.
Read p. 253 (sc. 4 line 9-13) and then STOP. Explain the picture of Claudius that Hamlet's
comments paint.
7. Point out that conflicting motives can put good friends in conflict. Read (sc. 4 line 66-80)
and then
What is Hamlet's motive? Horatio does not want Hamlet to pursue the Ghost
why or why not?