Midterm: 2 Class periods Week of 1/22

Honors English 4

Midterm: Hamlet

Mr. Dunphy

Directions:  Answer all five of the essay questions below.  (20 points each)

1.    Define the literary term dramatic irony.  Explain how Shakespeare utilizes this literary tool to affect the plot of Hamlet.

2.    Examine Hamlet’s relationships with Gertrude and Ophelia.  What theme is manifested?    Cite specific examples from the play which illustrate this respective theme. 

3.    Describe how Hamlet serves as a foil to all of the principal characters in the play.

4.    It is overtly apparent that death is ubiquitous in Hamlet.  Evaluate how Shakespeare explores myriad facets of death throughout the play.

5.   Summarize Hamlet’s “To Be Or Not To Be “ soliloquy.  Explore the respective significance and consider what is revealed about Hamlet’s philosophy.