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1. (a) Why does Claudius send Hamlet to England? Explain your answer - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2011
Question 1
1. (a) Why does Claudius send Hamlet to England? Explain your answer. (b) Do you think Laertes deserves to be killed by Hamlet at the end of the play? Give one reas... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:1. (a) Why does Claudius send Hamlet to England? Explain your answer - Leaving Cert English - Question 1 - 2011
Step 1
Why does Claudius send Hamlet to England? Explain your answer.
Answer
Claudius sends Hamlet to England primarily to eliminate the threat posed by him. By Act 3, Hamlet is increasingly erratic and aware of Claudius’s schemes. Claudius feels insecure about Hamlet's growing suspicion and influence, especially after the play within a play reveals Claudius's guilt regarding King Hamlet's murder. He poses the idea of sending Hamlet to England under the guise of a diplomatic mission, but his true intention is to have Hamlet killed. This move reflects Claudius's manipulative nature as he attempts to maintain his power while simultaneously safeguarding himself from Hamlet's revenge.
Step 2
Do you think Laertes deserves to be killed by Hamlet at the end of the play? Give one reason for your answer.
Answer
While it can be argued that Laertes does not deserve to be killed by Hamlet, he does play a significant role in the tragic conclusion of the play. Laertes seeks vengeance for his father Polonius's death, and although he is manipulated by Claudius into a duel that is rigged against Hamlet, his intent to harm Hamlet is clear. This motivation for revenge, combined with the circumstances of the poisoned sword and the plot against Hamlet's life, complicates the moral landscape. Consequently, while Hamlet's action of killing Laertes may seem unjust, it also stems from a cycle of revenge that has spiraled out of control.
Step 3
What is your opinion of Horatio? Explain your answer.
Answer
Horatio stands out as a voice of reason and loyalty throughout the chaos of Hamlet. He represents a grounding force amidst the play's turmoil, remaining rational and level-headed. His willingness to support Hamlet and his insightful observations reflect his deep friendship and unwavering integrity. Unlike other characters that are consumed by ambition or revenge, Horatio maintains his moral compass. He serves as an observer and a confidant, ultimately surviving the tragedy and bearing witness to the fall of the royal family, ultimately imparting Hamlet's story to the world.
Step 4
Relationships between parents and their children are at the centre of this play.
Answer
In Shakespeare's Hamlet, relationships between parents and their children profoundly influence the characters’ motivations and actions. The relationship between Gertrude and Hamlet is particularly complex. Gertrude's hasty marriage to Claudius after King Hamlet's death creates a rift with her son. Hamlet's feelings of betrayal and disgust stem from this union, which he views as a moral failure. Additionally, Hamlet's hesitation to avenge his father's death might be tied to his conflicting feelings about his mother's role in the tragedy.
On the other hand, the relationship between Polonius and Ophelia is emblematic of the control parents wield over their children. Polonius's treatment of Ophelia can be seen as manipulative; he restricts her relationship with Hamlet, viewing her more as a pawn in a political game than as a daughter. This control contributes to Ophelia's later madness, symbolizing how parental influence can lead to tragic outcomes. Thus, both relationships illuminate the overarching theme of familial bonds and their catastrophic repercussions.
Step 5
Write an article about Shakespeare’s Hamlet for your school magazine in which you consider whether the play is relevant to young people today.
Answer
Shakespeare's Hamlet remains an enduring piece of literature that resonates with young people even today, primarily due to its exploration of themes such as revenge, identity, and moral ambiguity. The struggles Hamlet faces—dealing with grief, betrayal, and existential questioning—are universal experiences that adolescents encounter.
Moreover, the play addresses issues of mental health and the pressures of familial expectations. Hamlet's introspective soliloquies provide insight into the complexities of human emotions, making it relatable for students grappling with their own identities. The intricacies of political intrigue and the consequences of decisions echo in today's societal dynamics, highlighting power struggles that continue to be relevant.
In contemporary discussions, Hamlet's complexities encourage young readers to engage critically with moral dilemmas and consider their implications in real life, establishing it as a crucial part of literature that educates and provokes thought among the youth.
Step 6
Which character would you most like to play in your school’s production of Hamlet? Give reasons for your answer based on your knowledge of the play.
Answer
I would like to play the character of Hamlet in my school’s production. Hamlet’s complexity and depth offer a unique challenge that would be both rewarding and enriching. His internal struggles, indecision, and multifaceted personality allow for rich character development.
Facing themes of revenge, madness, and existentialism, Hamlet’s role requires an actor to explore a wide range of emotions, from melancholy to fury. This character's poignant soliloquies, especially 'To be or not to be,' invite an exploration of philosophical questions about life and death, making it a powerful experience for both the actor and the audience. Furthermore, Hamlet's relationships with other characters, such as Ophelia and Claudius, present opportunities for dynamic interactions, deepening the narrative impact within the production.