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HAMLET What hour now? HORATIO I think it lacks of twelve - NSC English HL - Question 11 - 2022 - Paper 2
Question 11
HAMLET What hour now? HORATIO I think it lacks of twelve. MARCELLUS No, it is struck. HORATIO Indeed? I heard it not. Then it draws near the season, Wherein the spir... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:HAMLET What hour now? HORATIO I think it lacks of twelve - NSC English HL - Question 11 - 2022 - Paper 2
Step 1
11.1 Discuss the significance of the ghost's appearance to Hamlet.
Answer
The ghost of King Hamlet has appeared to inform Hamlet of his father’s murder by Claudius. It is in purgatory due to the unnatural nature of the King’s death. The ghost demands that Hamlet avenge his father’s death so that he may find peace. Additionally, it accuses Claudius of seducing Gertrude into marrying him with his unnatural acts.
Step 2
11.2 What does Hamlet’s attitude towards Claudius reveal?
Answer
Hamlet's attitude is indicative of his disgust and contempt for Claudius. He is disapproving of Claudius's immoral and self-indulgent behavior, particularly since he has become a king. His use of the word 'wake' implies that Claudius chooses late-night carousing, indicating a lack of responsibility and an emphasis on hedonism that is fostered by Claudius's role.
Step 3
11.3 Is Hamlet justified in his concerns about Claudius?
Answer
Yes, Hamlet’s concerns are justified given Claudius’s debauchery has destroyed Denmark's reputation and moral compass. Claudius’s conduct undermines the nation, as Hamlet's father was king before him. His manipulation of the Danish court destabilizes the integrity of the realm, making Hamlet's response appropriate.
Step 4
11.4 What is Hamlet’s dilemma regarding the ghost?
Answer
Hamlet’s dilemma includes his uncertainty about the ghost's nature and intentions. Initially, Hamlet is frightened and hesitant, questioning whether the ghost might be malevolent. This fear leads him to consider the moral implications of avenging his father’s death while grappling with his conscience, thereby illustrating the conflict between action and moral contemplation.
Step 5
11.5 How do Claudius and Polonius interact with Gertrude and Hamlet?
Answer
Claudius and Polonius collude to investigate Hamlet’s distress by spying on his conversation with Gertrude. They do this by concealing themselves and overhearing critical exchanges, displaying a lack of trust and a desire to manipulate the situation to maintain power. This action emphasizes their roles as intrusive figures in Hamlet's life.
Step 6
11.6 How does Hamlet describe Polonius?
Answer
Hamlet’s description of Polonius implies he is a foolish and intrusive busybody. Hamlet critiques Polonius's habit of meddling in others' affairs, especially evidenced by Polonius's attempts to monitor Hamlet's relationship with Ophelia. This view establishes Polonius as an archetype of misguided loyalty and self-serving behavior in the court.
Step 7
11.7 How might Hamlet interact with the ghost?
Answer
Hamlet might point to the ghost and place his hands on his breast, portraying his guilt and remorse. His eyes would likely shift uneasily, indicating both reverence and fear. This physical reaction underscores the gravity of the ghost's revelations and Hamlet's conflicted emotional state as he grapples with his father's legacy and his duty for revenge.
Step 8
11.8 Is Hamlet justified in his treatment of Gertrude?
Answer
Yes, Hamlet's treatment of Gertrude is seen as justified from his perspective. He views her as fickle and immoral, especially following her swift marriage to Claudius. Hamlet feels betrayed by Gertrude’s actions, which he interprets as a lack of loyalty to his father, causing him to express condemnation and disappointment in her behavior.