Hamlet Discussion Questions

Act II
1. Why does this act open with Polonius and Reynaldo? What does this tell us about Polonius’s character,
and what theme or motif does it introduce in the play?
The opening of this act established to provide a sense of understanding. It gives greater understanding
of Polonius’s character and how he is a sneaky behavior. It shows that he doesn’t trust his son and he
basically betrays his son.

2. Ophelia relays the story of Hamlet’s shocking intrusion into her sewing closet. Why does Hamlet act so
strangely?
I think Hamlet is acting crazy because the appearance of the ghost is still affecting him. He doesn’t know
how to comprehend everything that is happening to him and everything he has learned.

3. How does the interaction between Hamlet and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern help to explain what’s
wrong with Hamlet? Why are Rosencrantz and Guildenstern in Denmark?
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are in Denmark to spy on Hamlet for Gertrude and Claudius. Their
interaction with Hamlet allows us to see more of Hamlet’s feelings about his father’s death. It also
shows the cleverness of Hamlet as he notices that he is being spied on and how he can use that to his
advantage.

4. The First Player’s speech is often cut in performances of the play. Explain why it is important and why it
should not be cut.
The speech is important because it plays on the emotions of both Hamlet and the character. It allows
Hamlet to identify with the First Player as they relate to each other. They both want to take revenge for
their fathers’ deaths.

5. Hamlet’s “O what a rogue and peasant slave am I” is the second of his soliloquies. What is he saying, and
how does this set of words help to move him to action? How does this soliloquy impact your
understanding of Hamlet's character?
Hamlet’s soliloquy makes him question himself and why he can’t take proper revenge for his father’s
sake. He wonders how an actor can have more passion for a fake character than he can in his actual life.
It helps you understand how much Hamlet actually cared about his father, and how he wishes he could
do more for his father.

6. Give this Act a name or title that captures the heart of the action. Be as creative and specific as you can
in naming this Act.
Who is the Real Heartbreak of Hamlet?
Quotes, notes, observations, connections, etc.
The connection of emoticons between characters really presents itself within this Act. Why doesn’t
Hamlet work with Fortinbras as it would work for the benefit for both of them.