Hamlet Quiz #1

I gave my seniors their first quiz. The day before, I reviewed Act I with them; asking questions that were going to be on the quiz. You would think that after me saying, "I would pay attention and take notes," students would do just that. However, I was mistaken. Here is an example of one quiz...



1. Explain the significane of the ghost. What are two possible reasons he keeps returning.
Student answer: The ghost is the king. He is trying to distract others from the truth.
Correct answer: The ghost is King Hamlet. The ghost represents purgatory, unfinished buisness, etc...



2. In the guards' conversation, we learn about an outside force that threatens the security of Denmark. Who or what is the outside force?
Student answer: The ghost.
Correct answer: Prince Fortinbras in Norway because he wants to avenge his father's death because King Hamlet killed King Fortinbras in battle over land.



3. When the audience first meets Hamlet, he is depressed and angry. Explain two possible reasons for his bad mood.
Students answer: I would be depressed to if my name was Hamlet.
Correct answer: Father just died, mother married uncle, and Hamlet was supposed to take throne



4. Why is King Claudius' speech important? Provide two reasons.
Student answer: It explains whats going on... even though I still don't understand.
Correct answer: Setting the tone for his throne. He shows he is two-sided and cannot be trusted. He wants Elsinore to forget about King Hamlet's death and focus on the marriage that is happy....etc...



5. What are the two main elements of a soliloquy?
Student answer: Monologue, both sided
Correct answer: Character is alone, speaking what is on their mind-- like speaking aloud to yourself, uncensored thoughts to know how the character is truly feeling.



6. Why are Ophelia's brother and father opposed to her seeing more of Hamlet?

Student answer: Because Hamlet took her in the closet and got angry with her and held her hard.
Correct answer: The brother does not want her heart to get broken because he doesn't think Hamlet truly loves her. Her father wants to protect his public image.



7. Who murders King Hamlet? How does Hamlet's father die (specifically).
Student answer: I honestly don't remember... oh wait, yes I do, he died of ear poison.
Correct answer: Herbona in a vial that turned into leperosy.



8. How does the Ghost want Hamlet ot prove his love for his father?
To tell her the other guy kill the king.
Correct answer: By avenging his father's death


9. According to the Ghost, what should Hamlet do about his mother?
Student answer: Ignore her, she keeps interrupting.
Correct answer: Do not do anything-- leave her alone. Let her die a natural death, and the afterlife will judge her. That will be her punishment.

This student is extremely intelligent, but he was not listening during class, therefore did not do well on the quiz. Poor students, they having progress reports this week.