Read the extracts below and then answer the questions that follow - Languages - NSC English HL - Question 11 - 2024 - Paper 2

1. The Ghost describes King Hamlet's murder as 'unnatural' because it was committed by Claudius, Hamlet's own uncle and brother of the deceased, which betrays familial loyalty and the natural order of kingship.

2. Additionally, the method of murder—poison poured into King Hamlet's ear—was stealthy and treacherous, contrasting with the honorable way kings should be killed in battle, thus conveying a deep moral violation.

Hamlet's decision to feign madness serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it allows him to divert suspicion while he investigates his father's murder without alerting Claudius. By adopting an 'antic disposition,' Hamlet can engage in seemingly irrational behavior that masks his true intentions.

Furthermore, this façade enables him to explore the corruption and moral decay of the court under Claudius's rule. It becomes a strategic maneuver to control how others perceive him, granting him the freedom to plot his revenge unimpeded.

Horatio is depicted as Hamlet's closest friend and confidant. He plays a crucial role in the narrative by providing Hamlet with unwavering support amidst the chaos that ensues following King Hamlet's death. Horatio's rationality and loyalty contrast with the duplicity of others in the court, creating a safe space for Hamlet to express his fears and aspirations.

Throughout the play, this friendship is essential as Horatio serves as a foil to Hamlet's character, showcasing the strength of genuine loyalty in a world riddled with betrayal. Their bond ultimately signifies the value of friendship in the face of adversity.

In these lines, Hamlet expresses a sense of urgency and despair regarding the state of Denmark. The phrase 'the time is out of joint' indicates his awareness of the moral and ethical disarray caused by Claudius's usurpation of the throne. Hamlet’s declaration that he was 'born to set it right' demonstrates his internal conflict, as he feels compelled to avenge his father's murder and restore order, yet grapples with the weight of this responsibility.

This duality in his mindset reflects the broader themes of duty versus action, illustrating how Hamlet is trapped between his desire for revenge and the moral implications of taking a life.

Ophelia returns Hamlet's gifts as a response to Polonius's insistence that she cease her relationship with him. Under the guidance of her father and brother, she perceives that the gifts symbolize Hamlet's insincerity in his affections. By returning them, Ophelia aligns herself with her father's wishes and attempts to navigate the complicated social expectations concerning her autonomy and relationships within the royal court.

Hamlet's question 'Where's your father?' reveals his contempt for Polonius, viewing him as a manipulative figure who uses his daughter as a pawn. This inquiry is laced with suspicion, showcasing Hamlet's perception of Polonius as untrustworthy and exceedingly meddling in the affairs of others. Hamlet's relationship with Polonius is characterized by a sense of disdain, emphasizing the theme of betrayal and deceit that permeates the play.

As a director, I would instruct the actor to deliver this line with intense emotion and vindictive body language. The actor should step forward, assertively pointing towards Ophelia as if to drive the point home. The tone should embody a mix of anger and despair, reflecting Hamlet's inner turmoil about love and trust. This delivery heightens the dramatic effect, showcasing Hamlet's conflict between his feelings for Ophelia and his perception of women as deceptive, thereby eliciting both sympathy and fear from the audience.

Hamlet's behavior toward Ophelia is laden with complexities that contribute to her eventual demise. Throughout the play, he oscillates between affection and cruelty, particularly evident in his harsh remarks and rejection of her. While Hamlet's madness is a facade, its fallout is real and impacts Ophelia deeply.

Moreover, Hamlet’s disregard for her emotional well-being, coupled with the pressures exerted by her father, Polonius, ultimately leads Ophelia into a state of despair. His erratic behavior not only confuses her but also isolates her in a court filled with duplicity and betrayal, culminating in her tragic fate.