Sunday, November 25, 2012

Response Act Five Cameron

You can see that Hamlet is one of Shakespeare's tragedies because almost everyone dies. I was surprised that all of the suspense from the last four acts ended like this. I assumed that Hamlet and Claudius would die; I didn't expect everyone to be killed in this attempted murder.

Response to Act four Cameron

I am fascinated how the play is finally reaching its turning point. To me, the play is suspenseful. I'm very curious to find out the end. Honestly, I'm ready for it to end. I also want to know what the letters hold.

Response Act three Cameron

I find this to be ironic. The murder of Polonious was not on purpose, it was accidental. I think that because Hamlet believes he is condemned religiously, he'll let go of the morals he does have, and continue to do bad things.

Response to Act Two Cameron

I think act two was much harder to interpret than act one. I tried to focus on the language and got lost in translation. Once I finally got the gist of it, I began to feel like act two was much better than act one.

Personal Response Act One Cameron

I think hamlet is over dramatic and beats around the bush when he talks about his attitudes towards people. He's not very direct. So far, I like the play compared to other Shakespearian plays.

Monday, November 19, 2012

Act 5 Language (Ashton Jones)

1. Argal- Indicates a reasoning as to why they did what they did to themselves or something. This word is a pronounciation of the latin word ergo. This word ties in to the script because its an old english word that was used very often through out these old writings and plays made.

2.Quiddity- Is the essential nature of a thing. They used this word a lot to help describe why a person would
do such a thing and thats by their nature. The words tone is very catchy and is used in this play to help the
people of that era understand that the reason this person did that thing is because it was their human or
personal nature.      

3. Sirrah- is how they adress inferiors or children to express impatience.This was a word typically used to catch a persons attention in a very respectable way. They used this word in the old english because it would help them gain the attention of a person.

4. Gibes- to utter mocking or scoffing words.They used this word to ask why people were mocking them and why they were doing such a thing. This word was only common in the era of when they spoke old english.

5. Maim- To lose a limb or feeling due to a wound from something. This was a common word used in shakespeares time because a lot of people have had injuries to where they couldnt use one of their body parts. The word had a lot of meaning to soldiers in battle or people that have fought with swords a lot.

Act Five Symbols/Allusions: Cameron Ginger Daddy

1) The cup: 
The cup represents the King's union with his land which leads him to damnation, this was also an issue for the late King Hamlet but he didn't know it. In this case King Claudius knows that the only way to spare his soul is to give up the land but instead he chooses damnation.

2)Yorick's skull: 

In the first scene when Horatio and Hamlet walk up on some gravediggers Hamlet asks about a skull that one of the gravediggers had pulled from the ground. The skull belonged to Yorick, the late King Hamlet's jester who Hamlet had a personal connection too. After seeing the skull Hamlet begins to ponder life after death and how even the greatest men throughout time such as Alexander the great become no more than dirt. The skull represents death and therefore Hamlet's confrontation with death.

3)Sir James Hales: 

In act V scene I Shakespeare alludes to Sir James Hale a Justice of the Common Pleas.

Act Four Language: Cameron

1) 4.2 Hamlet
"I am glad of it. A knavish speech sleeps in a foolish ear."

-I'm glad that you don't understand what I am saying. Sly words are never to be understood by fools.

-These phrases give you a little view of Hamlet's real feeling towards Guildenstern and Rosencrantz. It lets you know how foolish he really finds them to be.


2) 4.4 Hamlet
"...Now, whether it be
Bestial oblivion, or some craven scruple..."

- Now whether it is animal-like madness or cowardly hesitation."

-This phrase gives you the clue that Hamlet is really beating himself up about his hesitation to avenge his father's death. You can tell that he is disappointed in himself and he doesn't understand why he has put it off for so long.

3) 4.5 Laertes
"This nothing's more than matter."

-This nonsense she is speaking means more than rational speech.

-This gives you a sense of Ophelia's true insanity. She is driven mad, much to everyone's dismay and what she says is more proof of her insanity than anyone can ever describe in rational speech. 

Who's Who Act III: Cameron

Hamlet: After a misunderstanding, he loses Ophelia and is finally driven to madness.
Claudius: Has decided to send Prince Hamlet away after Ophelia returns her gifts and letters to Hamlet, because he is afraid of what Hamlet could do to harm his spot on the throne.
Polonious: Had told Ophelia to reject Hamlet's love to protect her virtue. But began to fear that he was the cause of Hamlet's madness
Ophelia: After returning Hamlet's gifts, she began to watch the prince fall apart. She realizes that love can drive good men crazy, and she fears that she is the cause for Hamlet's madness

Clarification Questions Act 2: Cameron

1) In scene II, line 548, what does the word "scullion" mean?
2) Why does Hamlet question the actor when he says "The muffled queen"?
3) Why is Polonious spying on his son? What does he expect to find?
4) In scene II, line 127, what does the phrase "table-book" mean?

Themes Act I: Cameron

The theme for act one is betrayal. This is because Prince Hamlet feels betrayed by both his mother, Gertrude, and his uncle Claudius, after returning home for his father's funeral to find that his mother had remarried his uncle. This was an incestuous act, and it was of great shock to him.

Personal Reaction abbie Clark

.. I knew it was going to end in tragedy but not to this extent. Everyone dies, everyone except Horatio so that he can tell Hamlet's story. I was not expecting Gertrude's death whatsoever, and I can't believe Claudius did not stop her from drinking from the cup. He didnt try hardly at all, just said something along the lines of "Gertrude, don't drink from that". She was trying to rebel against his control by this point because she finally saw Claudius for the man that he was, so in a way her stuborness played a part in killing her too.  Hamlet finally seeks his revenge against Claudius and I was glad but in a way sad because even though Hamlet had killed Polonius already, I didn't really think his character would allow him to kill Claudius. He would never go through with it before hand, but I suppose when Claudius took away the last thing he loved, Gertrude, he went off. The deaths got less shocking and shocking as they went along, I think I just kind of got used to the idea much like the gravedigger got used to death. It's funny how habit can make us get used to anything. Just as it is funny that one day, all of our accomplishements wont matter because we'll just be another meaningless skull in the ground. That I think is what Hamlet was saying; no matter who we are or what we do, we will die and become one with the Earth. I turned that thought in my head a couple of times because I had never thought about it before. This Act made me think about a lot of things in detail. The thought who has the right to kill another popped into my mind again several times. I think Shakespeare was exploring this idea through Hamlet's internal conflict of seeking revenge.

Clarification Questions

Did Rosencrantz and Guildenstern deserve their fate?

Did Ophelia kill herself, or did "the water come to her, and drown her"

Does Hamlet realize that he might not come out of this fight alive? 




The lines of right and wrong and easily blurred in this tragedy; on one hand I see where Rosencratz and Guildensterns might have deserved their fate just by simply betraying Hamlet, but then again who has the right to end a life except for God? As for Ohelia, well she was insane at the time. She wasn't in her right mindset so she didnt know what she was doing, whether it be accident or intentional, I would declare Ophelia's death as suicide. 
I do think Hamlet realizes he wont make it out alive. He forshadows his own death by talking of a bad feeling he has and hugs Horatio before he sets out to fight. 

Thursday, November 15, 2012

Personal Reaction, Annie Cruz

     By the end of Hamlet I was very shocked. I didn't really have any knowledge of Shakespear before we read Hamlet, so I was not use to all the tragedy endings. I found the battle between Hamlet Laertes to be very suspensful. The tension that had built up through out the whole entire book was released during Act 5. I believe that Laertes was spiteful, angry, and depressed over his fathers death, but I feel like he wouldn't of actually seeked revenge on Hamlet if he was given enought time to mourn over his fathers death. King Claudius acted as a catalyst and filled him with anger and reasons to take revenge on Hamlet. The fact that after Laertes was stabbed he apologized to Hamlet and revealed the truth, shows that he did have remorse for the actions he had participated in with King Claudius.
     The part of Act 5 I was most eager to see was when Hamlet finally found revenge on the King. This was a very important part on the play and I was very happy to see that he finally fulfilled his fathers wishes. But, I was also disappointed that Hamlet had to die. This story was filled with many deaths, arguements, and misconceptions. Overall, I found it to be a very interesting book.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

$(Ashton Jones)$ Symbols and Alussions

Scene 2
(To be demanded of a sponge)
This shows symbolism because sponges in nature sit there and absorb water and food through the current of the water. If the current continues to flow the sponge will be fed and kept well. Hamlet calls Rosencrantz a sponge because he goes around taking in all the information and background stories he can. This sort of acting is that of what a sponge would do, so thats why he called him a sponge.

Scene 1
(Like some ore Among a mineral of metals base)
This shows symbolism through the fact that these minerals were placed in this base metal and cant be removed unless broken down or melted. Gertrude states that hamlet is still in madness and the only way to calm his madness down is to get rid of him. Because his madness is stuck to him like minerals in base metals.

Scene 3
(Not where eats but where he is eatan)
This very symbolic because it expresses how a man used to sit down at his table to eat what has been prepared for him. But instead he is being eaten where he would normally sit down to eat his meals. Death is definitly taken out of this because of how this is worded.

Act five: Personal Reaction, Hannah

I was not surprised at all by what happens in this act. I saw it coming from the time that Hamlet accepted the duel. I knew by him doing this it would not turn out well. However, I did not expect the queen to die. I was glad though that Hamlet finally killed his father's murderer. Even though it was a sad story and everyone died I still enjoyed the story more than I thought I would.

Act five: Key Passages, Hannah

1. The first key passage would have to be when Hamlet realizes that Ophelia is dead. This is when he comes out from hiding and admits to everyone that he loved Ophelia. Also, Laertes and Hamlet have their little fight and this is very important. It sets the tone for how the rest of the play is going to turn out. Now, Hamlet is back and the king and Laertes have to act on their plan to kill Hamlet.

2. The second key passage is when the queen drinks from the poisoned cup and Hamlet and Laertes are both now injured. This passage is basically the end of  the play. Now we can pretty much tell that they are all going to die. But, before they die, Laertes realizes that the king was the bad guy all along and he tells Hamlet that and Hamlet kills the king. This ties the whole play together and brings everything to an end.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Act 5 Personal Reaction-Tori

I think it is really ironic how everyone dies at the end of the book, and the sequence in which they die.  I am proud of Hamlet finally getting his revenge on King Claudius and thus avenging his father's murder.  It saddens me to think of the death of Ophelia, and what drove her to this depressing state.  I am also proud of Hamlet for finally expressing his emotions about his love for Ophelia to other people in his anguish at the news of her death.  When Hamlet is on his death bed, he names Fortinbras the heir to the throne of Denmark, and it surprises me that he would do that since Fortinbras is the sworn enemy of Denmark.

Act 5 Clarification Questions-Tori

1. What is the significance of the skulls being dug up in the graveyard?

2. How and why do the others react the way that they do when Hamlet proclaims his love for Ophelia?

3. Why does Hamlet name Fortinbras as the heir to the Danish throne?

Act 3 Themes (Ashton Jones)$$$$:)

My Theme is love and marriage. In act three you realize that Rosencrantz and Guilenstern have no luck trying to figure out what is wrong with Hamlet. So Polonius and Claudius are hiding nearby when Ophelia trys to return Hamlets stuff back to him. In the ballroom Hamlet starts to explain to her in words that he does not want his belongings back. But Ophelia refuses to understand exactlty why Hamlet wont take back his. So in actions Hamlet describes to her that he can not marry her or love her no more. So he hears a noise in the distant and realizes that her father is nearby and he searches everyroom looking for him. While he does this he physically abuses her and her father watches everything that Hamlet does to her. While he is watching in disguist, Hamlet finds the room their in and they dart away before he can catch them.

Personal Reaction Act 4, Annie Cruz

During Act 4 there are many events which begin to unfold. Once Ophelia learns of her fathers death she begins to go mad, just as if they think Hamlet is. I was very shocked at how mindless she had become. Also, the fact that Laeretes stormed in with an angry crowd defending him was very shocking. Another event that took place during this act was when the King and Laeretes have decided to plan death for Hamlet. Not only does the cause me to be irate, but it also makes me fill anxious. I have yet to see Hamlet seek revenge for his father and am more than eager to watch him fulfill his fathers wishes.

Questions Act 4, Annie Cruz

1. How does Claudius justify sending Hamlet to England?

2. Why do you think Hamlet hid  Polonius' body instead of giving it to the king?

3. Do you think that Ophelia's feelings changed for Hamlet once she was informed that Hamlet had killed her father?

4.  What two reasons did Claudius give Laertes in defense of not punishing Hamlet?

5. Why did Laertes say,"And therefore i forbid these tears" when he is informed of Ophelia's death?

Monday, November 12, 2012

Act 5 personal reaction -Rachel

Well I knew I needed to go on and do act 5 or I would've forgotten, but I'm glad I did because it was really good and crazy! It really through me off the the queen would drink from the poison cup meant for Hamlet. It's kinda sad that basically everyone that is a main character dies, but it makes the book better and interesting! This may sound bad, but I'm glad the king was to blame at the end and I'm glad that he died. Even though Hamlet dies, he got revenge on the former king for his father and that was his main goal. This story had so many backwards and twisted things happen in it where it was just crazy and unexpected. I also did not expect Ophelia to die. I really wanted for her and Hamlet to meet again later on in the book and get married or something, too bad she and he are both dead! But over all I thought Hamlet had a good plot to it, it wasn't too hard t understand and kept the readers attention because so many unexpected events happen.

Act 5 themes -Rachel

                  The themes of this act include Appearance vs. Reality, honor, duty and responsibility and twists of fate.
                   One of the main themes in this act is Appearance vs. Reality. There's are many examples to this. For starters, the part where the priest doesn't know how to take Ophelia's death because it looks like it could be either an accident, or a suicide, he doesn't really know and neither does anyone else.
                   Another example mod this is the dueling scene between Hamlet and Laertes. It looks like it is just a fun playful fight, but in reality, this fight is actually very dangerous. It leads into another theme of honor. Laertes is trying to restore the honor that he thinks has been lost due to what Hamlet has done and he feels like it is his duty, or responsibility to bring this honor back.
                 Twists of fate also play apart in this act as well. Basically all the main characters die, it had been there fate all along, no one just knew it yet.
                 

Act 4: Personal Reaction, Hannah

This act surprised me more than any of the other acts. I did not expect Hamlet to kill Polonius in the first place and I definitely did not expect Ophelia to go mad or drown. I think the book is getting better and more interesting with each act. there is more and more suspense as Hamlet still considers whether to kill his uncle or not.

Act 4: Themes, Hannah

Madness
       The theme of madness ties into this act in many ways. First of all, they still all think Prince Hamlet is insane because of his recent behavior. Secondly, Hamlet has just killed Ophelia's father and now she has seemed to go mad. Her father is now dead and her brother is gone to Paris and Hamlet, the man that she loved, is now also gone. The stress of all this happening to her at once drove her mad. Now Ophelia can do nothing but sing silly songs and prance around the palace. And by the end of the act Ophelia's madness has caused her fall into a stream and drown.

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Personal Reaction Act 4, Abbie Clark

After reading Act four, I literally was speachless; my mind was blown. In this one Act alone there was more  entertainment than half the crap that is on TV nowadays. I mean for starters, Claudius is plotting Hamlet's murder behind Gertrude's back. First by demanding that the King of England have Hamlet killed (What a Schmuck, he can't even do his own dirty work) and then later plotting Hamlet's murder with Laertes in order to make it look like an accident. At this point Claudius says something really ironic to Laertes, when plotting ways for Laertes to avenge his father's death he says " Revenge should have no limits." .... Um if that were the case you would be long gone Claudius. Hamlet had the perfect chance to kill him yet he didn't because he was in the midst of repenting his sins to God. Hamlet is three times the man of Claudius and I fervently hope that Claudius and Laertes plan does not suceed. Okay, moving on, Hamlet leaves only to write a letter to Horatio exclaiming that he has been taken prisoners by pirates. Like really, that's so random but I guess Shakespeare must've wanted to mix things up because after that, things get even crazier. Gertrude interupts Claudius and Laertes plots of murder when she simply comes in and tells Laertes that Ophelia is dead; that she drowned. What is even more shocking is the short amount of sentences that even discussed her death, like it wasn't even that big of a deal. When Shakespeare kills someone off, he does it thouroughly and quickly. One minute they're there, the next they're not. I have no idea how Act Five could end, but no doubt it will end in a murder.

Whos who Act 4 -Abbie Clark

By this point we basically know all the characters but there's a lot of random ones thrown into the mix in Act 4, so I suppose I'll just name them. 

Salior/The Messenger : The Salior brings Horatio a letter from Hamlet exclaiming that he has been taken prisoner by Pirates, yeah... that kind of came out of no where but moving on, and that he has very important news for Claudius. The messenger then brings Hamlet's letter to Claudius in which Hamlet proceeds to tell him that he is coming back to Denmark.  So basically The Sailor's and The Messenger's only purpose in this Act  is to provide a twist.


Fortinbras: Plays a minor roll in this Act. He basically just tells Hamlet  that Fortinbras asks permission to move his troops across Denmark. 

Captain: The Captain's, just like Fortinbras, main purpose is to enlighten Hamlet with the news that the nephew of the old King of Norway is directing troops to poland to fight over some worthless land. 




Personal response -Rachel

This story has now had a bunch of weird things happen all at once, Polonius and Ophelia are now dead, and Hamlet is suppository on a pirate ship. This is getting pretty intense and interesting. I don't like the king because he wants to kill Hamlet just because he thinks he is a threat, but really the king is threatening himself because he may get caught in these plans.

clarity question -Rachel

1.) why does Hamlet hide Polonius' body when he knows it will be found anyway?

2.) do you think Hamlet has actually gone a little bit crazy now for real? Why or why not?

3.) why do you think Ophelia sings her sorrows in scene 5? Why doesn't she just talk normal? Why does she feel this in necessary?

4.) Do you think the king and Laertes' plan to kill Hamlet really work? If it does work, do you think they will get away with the crime? Why or why not?

5.) Do you think what the queen said about the way Ophelia died is true, or do you think she meant to kill herself?

Act 4 Personal Reaction-Tori

In this act, my hate and dislike for Claudius grows even more in that he is wanting to punish Hamlet for killing someone by accident when, he himself killed his own brother for the glory of the crown, and take the Queen as his prize.  It angers me that he is putting all his efforts into Hamlet's discretions rather than focusing on the war at hand.  Claudius's loyalty to his country is becoming less and less evident as he grants Fortinbras permission to march through Denmark, when if he really loved and cared for his country, all his efforts and focus would be to keep the enemy out of Denmark.

Act 4 Language-Tori

1. brainish apprehension
Definition: brain sick belief
The significance of this phrase contributes to the effect of Hamlet's gradual insanity and helps to define how he has reacted to the events that have caused him to react the way that he has.  This phrase has also shed light on how the people around Hamlet now perceive him, especially now that he has outright killed Polonius, yet still no one understands the truth about King Hamlet's death.

2. "Where tis so, th' offender's scourge is weighed, but never the offense."
definition: Where the people love with their eyes instead of their reason, they judge with punishment rather than crime.
This phrase contributes to the tone of the passage in that the question is what to do with Hamlet now that he has killed Polonius. Claudius contemplates what he should do with Hamlet, and considers other people's opinions and how they will view the situation.  He describes their reactions in that their opinions matter, since he should speak for the people, but he fears that they may care more about the punishment of Hamlet, rather than the evil that he has done.

3. "by his license Fortinbras craves the conveyance of a promised march over his kingdom"
definition: Fortinbras has been given permission to march through Denmark and is now asking for an escort.
This adds to the effect and forseeing drama and anticipation of the upcoming war and also questions Claudius's loyalty to Denmark in that he would turn his back on his country and let the enemy inside.

4. "Will not debate the question of this straw"
definition: are not enough to pay for settling this trifling quarrel
This adds to the tone of the passage and adds to the effect of the war stricken Denmark in that the anticipation of the war being waged on Denmark is ever growing.  This also reveals Hamlet's loyalty to his country in that he defends his country's honor.

5. Impostume
definition: abscess
This words helps the tone of this particular part of the passage in that it shows Hamlet's disgust of the war and helps the reader to better understand the war by his disgust of it being centered around the amount of wealth and peace that one might have.  He is also projecting his opinion that this is not a good enough reason for anyone to die for, in other words, the war and its cause is not worth fighting for.

Friday, November 9, 2012

Personal Response -Abbie

A lot of stuff goes down in Act 3, it's almost like it is the rising action of the story. Hamlet proved his Uncle's guilt to himself and confronted his mother with her wrongdoings in just a matter of a few scenes. Oh and I almost forgot, Polonius got what was coming to him;) When Hamlet called him a "rat" and stabbed him, I have to admit I was kind of glad, but this obviously has to complicate things. Ophelia is going to find out sooner than later that Hamlet killed her father. In a way, Hamlet kind of did the same thing to Ophelia as his Uncle did to him. The lines of right and wrong are so easily blurred, especially in this story that is filled with matters such as revenge and hate. It kind of goes back to the question we asked ourselves while reading " Never Let Me Go"; who said we have the right to take away someone's life for any reason. Whether it be to save someone else or to act upon a sworn revenge. To me, that is the question.

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Personal response -Rachel

This whole act all in all is one of the most important acts in the book I think. We have one test going in to see If Hamlet really loves Ophelia, then we have another test to see if Claudius really is the murderer or the king. We also have talk of Hamlet being sent away to England. And now, Polonious is dead! There are so many new and unexpected things happening, we don't know what's going to really happen next.  

Key passages -Rachel

-Lines 1-20 of act 3 scene, 1.
This is the conversation between Claudius, Gertrude, Rosenercrantz, and Guildenstein. It is interesting because they are all very worried about Hamlet. They are tying to decipher his bizarre behavior that they are not used to. This meeting of these characters is what's starts out this while act, so you know it has a large significance on the future events.

-Halmet's speech
This long speech is significant because we know this is the test of Polonius and Claudius to see if he loves Ophelia. hamlet reveals his true thoughts and feelings about her and things, so this is a important part in this story.

Personal Reaction, Annie

By Act 3 I am very anxious to see Hamlet seek his revenge on King Claudius. I beleive that Hamlet will recieve his revenge when we least expect it. He is a very emotional character and likes to take everything into consideration before he takes action. I feel as if he's very smart in a way for being patient and waiting to see the Kings reaction to the play. Although i'm a little confused when Hamlet is speaking to the Queen in her closet, I know he was discussing his father's death with her. I think she know's that King Claudius was the true cause of his death, she is just focused on her relationship with the King and their reputation. Shes more worried about how she would be viewed than to seeking revenge on her ex husbands murderer.

Questions, Annie

1. Why do you think the ghost was only seen by Hamlet and not his mother? He had shown himself to the guards, so what not to his wife?

2. What will happen to Hamlet after King Claudius sends him to England?

3. Do you think that Ophelia has the right to be upset with Hamlet for saying he didn't love her anymore, when she was the one who "broke up" with him and ended their relationship?

4. Which characters know that King Claudius killed King Hamlet?

5. Why did Hamlet choose not to end King Claudius' life when he had the chance?

Personal Response, Hannah

I understood this Act more than I did Act II. I feel like the story is getting very intense and suspenseful at this point. I feel like this reading had some high points and low points. I like how finally we get to see the actors do what Hamlet told them to act out and see the king's reaction to it.

Clarification Questions, Hannah

Why did Hamlet keep telling Ophelia to join the nunnery? I was confused on this one part.

Did Hamlet tell his mother everything he knew about King Claudius and how he murdered his father? Or did he just tell her some things?

Why couldn't Hamlet's mother see the ghost when it entered? Why could only Hamlet see his father's ghost at this point?

Did Hamlet's mother believe what Hamlet was telling her about King Claudius?

Language- Abbie Clark


Act 3 Scene 2
Do you think I meant coutnry matters?
Definition -sex   
Hamlet says this to Ophelia after asking her if he could sit in her lap and she replied no. This shows Hamlets odd sense of humor which everyone mistakes for madness. 

...Wormwood, wormwood.
Defintion-  harsh. 
Hamlet says this in response to the play. It is coated with Irony and Sarcasm.  These words are very condescending for the whole play is based off his story;  the story of his fathers murder and his mother's hasty marriage to the murderer of the King, his Uncle. He is mocking the whole situation. 

Let the galled jade wince, our withers are unwrung.-
Translation:  Let the guilty wince. We can watch without being bothered. 
Hamlet says this to Ophelia during the play. These words contribute to the text because they create the sense of anticipation. Hamlet cant wait to have justice prevaled ; he wants to out his Uncle .

 For, for me to put him to his purgation would perhaps plunge him into far more choler
Translation-since if I treated him, he’d just get angrier.
Hamlet says this sarcastly back to R when he tells Hamlet that he needs to go and talk to his Uncle because he is mad at Hamlet's behavior. These words show the smugness that Hamlet is not trying to hide for he is sure that he just outed his Uncle. 
Act 3 scene 4 
.And there I see such black and grainèd spots As will not leave their tinct.
Translation - where the marks of sin are so thick and black they will never be washed away. 
Gertrude says this to Hamlet when he confronts her with her wrong doings. By these words you can tell she is eaten up by guilt. These words might be a pivitol moment for the story for Gertrude admits that she has been wrong after all; this might mend the bond between her and Hamlet somewhat. 

s.


Act 3 Personal Reaction-Tori

My reaction to this act is one of great impression in that I am proud of Hamlet for finally taking vengence in the murder of his father.  I am impressed at how cunning, sly, and creative he is in constructing his plan of using the players in the play and inserting his own twist in the play in order to coax a reaction from King Claudias that will indicate whether or not King Claudius is guilty of King Hamlet's murder.

Act 3 Symbols and Allusions-Tori

1. Scene 1
"for the wise men know well enough what monsters you make of them"
The "monsters" are a symbol in the play for the evil nature of the people in the play.  In that a monster is a symbol of evil, and can represent parallely the true nature of such characters as King Claudius.

2. Scene 2
"It out-Herods Herod."
This provides an allusion to King Herod in the holy bible.  In the scene, Hamlet is comparing this tragic event of the play not being held in a high honor, and how awful a punishment would be received if honor was not recieved.  This "punishment" would out Herod Herod, in that it alludes to King Herod and the awful things that he proved himself capable of while he was King.  While King Herod was in control, he was very ruthless and power hungry in that he would do anything to ensure his reign as king for as long as he lived.  While he was King, Jesus Christ was born as "King of the Jews," and when King Herod heard of this news, he was filled with jealousy and began his search for Jesus by killing all the newborn boys in Israel.  To say that Hamlet's "punishment" for being unhonorable is greater than the capabilities of King Herod's punishments would mean that the punishment is one of great measure.

3. Scene 3
"And my imaginations are as foul as Vulcan's stithy."
This provides an allusion to the Roman God Vulcan, who is the God of fire and metalworkings. Vulcan is connected to the destructive powers of fire and is supposedly used against enemies. In this,  Vulcan's "stithy" is his blacksmith tools.  Hamlet is making a comparison of his own intended behavior to the Godly, most powerful, toughest, and most dangerous blacksmith of all.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Act 2 who's who

Ashton T. Jones

- Reynaldo: He is a servant that basicly does what he is told to do and doesnt break any rules. He always follows all bylaws that are set out there.

-Ophelia: A lady that has had an affair with prince hamlet and is a lady that sows a lot clothing and different items in the kingdom.

-Voltemand: He was a ambassador from Norway that came to visit the kingdom to brings them greetings and explains how the war might take place.

-Guildenstern: He is hamlets bestfriend that is going to find out what is wrong with him and why he is so sad. He got ordered to not listen to what the queen has said and not take her back any of the information that was given to him about whats wrong with Hamlet.

-Rosenerantz: He is going along with Guildenstern to find out what is wrong with young prince hamlet. He is doing this by Queen Gertrude's orders.

-First player: He was a story teller that gave entertainment to the people in the kingdom. He was very good at what he did and he made the people very happy to see what his story was going to be when he showed up.

Key Passages, Annie Cruz

     Act 2 Scene 2.
   * Hamlets soliloquy at the end of scene two is a very important passage. This is Hamlet's way of expressing his passion over his father's death. As he expresses his bewilderment over the players compassion for Hebuca, who has been dead for hundreds of years, he becomes filled with thoughts about himself and his plans to seek revenge. Hamlet feels as if he is a coward for not immediately taking revenge on King Claudius. But as he continues to vent to himself we are exposed to his plan. These actions are important because they set the tone for the rest of the play.
   
     * Another key passage in scene 2 is when Polonius revels his theory to the king and queen. He informs them with what he believes in. They then set up a plan that will involve Hamlet and Ophelia meeting while they spy on them.


Personal Reaction, Annie Cruz

     At first after I read Act 2 I was very confused. This part of the book is filled with many key passages and important events that begin to unfold the play. One important event happening in Act 2 is what is thought to be, the discovery of Hamlet's madness. Polonius believes that the source of his depression is the fact that Ophelia refuses to continue on with their relationship. Polonius knows that Hamlet and Ophelia have become involved with each other and he decides to exterminate their relationship. 
     Another thing I thought was important was how Hamlet starts planning his revenge on King Claudious. Although he doesn't plan to verbally expose the truth in the situation, he composes a way to see the kings reaction during the play. At this point in the play I am very eager to see how Hamlets actions will pan out. I believe that he is handling himself very well and will soon achieve his revenge.   


Personal Reaction by Abbie Clark

I like Act 2 better than Act 1. In Act 1 everything was being laid out but in Act 2, the story starts to develop and take off.
I am really starting to hate the pompousness of Polonius for many different reasons.
1. He is a control freak seeking power over anyone that will let him rule
2. He is denying Hamlet of the one thing he craves for during this hard time; Ophelia's love
3. He is a know it all and I'm just going to go out on a long shot and say that he is going to cause even more problems in the future.
 Polonius seems to be the one stirring things up in this story. Not only does he not allow Ophelia to love Hamlet back, he declares that Hamlet is crazy to Claudius because he is love stricken... How stupid can you get? Yeah I'm sure rejection is weighing Hamlet down but he has many other more important things that are much more prominent driving factor for his behavior than love. Granted Polonius doesn't know the half of this, I still think he's an idiot. Okay Polonius aside, I'm intrigued to figure out if Hamlet's plan to find out if his Uncle is guilty will work.  And if it does, I'm wondering about all the possible outcomes.
 I am actually understanding Hamlet, and more so, I am actually enjoying it.

Important Passages by Abbie Clark

. I have of late,—but wherefore I know not,—lost all my mirth, forgone all custom of exercises; and indeed, it goes so heavily with my disposition that this goodly frame, the earth, seems to me a sterile promontory; this most excellent canopy, the air, look you, this brave o’erhanging firmament, this majestical roof fretted with golden fire,—why, it appears no other thing to me than a foul and pestilent congregation of vapours. What a piece of work is man! How noble in reason! how infinite in faculties! in form and moving, how express and admirable! in action how like an angel! in apprehension, how like a god! the beauty of the world! the paragon of animals! And yet, to me, what is this quintessence of dust?
Act 2; Scene 2
In this scene, Hamlet is explaining his depressed state of mind  to his old friends Rosencrantz and Guildenstern. I noted the importance of this passage because I thought it allowed me to view exactly how much hurt his father's death  caused him. He describes humans as being noble in reason, infinite in facilities and admirable in form, only to shatter that image with his own personal opinion in which he compares humans to nothing more than dust. After learning that his Uncle murdered his father and after swearing his revenge, Hamlet seems to be questioning everything. His whole world was shattered in a short period of time; all he knew is gone and he is trying to re-compensate by  trusting nothing, not even his previous thoughts. 


Marry, sir, here’s my drift:
(And I believe it is a fetch of wit)
You, laying these slight sullies on my son
As ’twere a thing a little soiled i' th' working—
Mark you, your party in converse, him you would sound,
Having ever seen in the prenominate crimes
The youth you breathe of guilty, be assured
He closes with you in this consequence:
“Good sir” or so, or “Friend,” or “Gentleman,”
According to the phrase or the addition
Of man and country
Act 2; Scene 1

I noted this passage simply because it made me want to punch Polonius in the face. He is so pompous and thinks he knows everything. He can't even fathom the thought of trusting his full grown son to live on his own. This elaborate plan to make his servant plant the seed of a bad reputation in  the minds of people who may know Laertes only to see if they are true is ridiculous. Obviously he has some major control issues in the way he tries to control Laertes and in the way he tries to control Ophelia and Hamlet's love for one another. This passage showed me to what extent Polonius will go to have this control. Polonius is going to cause some serious problems for Hamlet I think. 

Confound the ignorant, and amaze indeed
The very faculties of eyes and ears. Yet I,
A dull and muddy-mettled rascal, peak
Like John-a-dreams, unpregnant of my cause,
And can say nothing—no, not for a king,
Upon whose property and most dear life
A damned defeat was made. Am I a coward?
Who calls me “villain”? Breaks my pate across?
Plucks off my beard and blows it in my face?
Tweaks me by the nose? Gives me the lie i' th' throat
As deep as to the lungs? Who does me this?
Ha!
'Swounds, I should take it, for it cannot be
But I am pigeon-livered and lack gall
To make oppression bitter, or ere this
I should have fatted all the region kites
With this slave’s offal. Bloody, bawdy villain!
Remorseless, treacherous, lecherous, kindless villain!
O vengeance!
Why, what an ass am I! This is most brave,
That I, the son of a dear father murdered,
Prompted to my revenge by heaven and hell,
Must, like a whore, unpack my heart with words
And fall a-cursing like a very drab,
A scullion! Fie upon ’t, foh!
About, my brain.—Hum, I have heard
That guilty creatures sitting at a play
Have, by the very cunning of the scene,
Been struck so to the soul that presently
They have proclaimed their malefactions.
For murder, though it have no tongue, will speak
With most miraculous organ. I’ll have these players
Play something like the murder of my father
Before mine uncle. I’ll observe his looks.
I’ll tent him to the quick. If he do blench,
I know my course. The spirit that I have seen
May be the devil, and the devil hath power
T' assume a pleasing shape. Yea, and perhaps
Out of my weakness and my melancholy,
As he is very potent with such spirits,
Abuses me to damn me. I’ll have grounds
More relative than this. The play’s the thing
Wherein I’ll catch the conscience of the king
Act 2: scene 2

In this scene, Hamlet is reciting a soliloquy in which he firsts act on his sworn revenge. He notes how the actors made him feel just by their acting abilities alone and he conceives and idea in which will prove if his Uncle is guilty of his father's murder. Hamlet decides to make the actors perform a scene much like his father's murder in front of his Uncle. During this, Hamlet will  gauge his Uncle's reaction to determine whether he is  guilty or not. Hamlet is sure this will work for he thinks that even though murder has no tongue, it still finds a way to speak. 

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Language, Hannah

1. Pg, 60
" ...lost all my mirth..."
Basic Definition: great merriment.
The word mirth contributes to the context because Hamlet is very  sad about his father dying and he is explaining how he is depressed and nothing makes him happy anymore. This is important because this is one of the reasons that Hamlet is so upset with his mother and all the other people, they are all happy and celebrating so soon after his father's death.

2. Pg. 49
"I assure my good liege.."
Basic Definition: a feudal lord entitled to allegiance and service.
This word adds to the meaning of the work because everyone keeps referring to the King as this but he does not really even deserve to be king. Hamlet is the rightful heir and should've been king after his father died but since the former King's brother killed him and married the queen now prince Hamlet cannot be king and his uncle has taken over.

3. Pg. 46
" He raised a sigh so piteous and profound..."
Basic Definition: deserving pity
The word piteous adds to the tone of the story because it helps the reader understand how upset Hamlet really is. The other characters in the story are taking pity on Hamlet and they are very worried about him because of his strange behavior.

4. Pg. 65
"...thy face is valanced since I saw thee last. "
Basic Definition: a decorative framework to conceal curtain fixtures at the top of a window casing.
This word helps set the tone because it shows how Hamlet is hiding something. whether it be the fact that he saw his father's ghost or just the fact that he is hurting on the inside and he is trying to put up a front and a valance is used to hide things.

5. Pg. 71
" ...all his visage wanned..."
Basic Definition: the appearance conveyed by a person's face.
This word contributes to the context because many characters in the story are hiding something and they are trying to keep it a secret and not show it by the look on their face.

Personal reaction -Rachel

This book has actually gotten interesting because it keeps making you guess what is going to happen next. The fake letter was really weird because Polonius is trying to make Hamlet look bad, just so he can keep his daughter's and his reputations safe. I think Hamlet is going to get out of this little depression state he has going on because he will find a way to get revenge which is going to make him a little happier then he was.

Symbols or allusions -Rachel

1.) In the beginning of act 2 scene 1, Hamlet, Rosenerantz, and Guildenstern,bare all talking about the future. Hamlet says, "a dream itself is but a shadow". The shadow symbolizes darkness, the darkness also means that Hamlet has no idea what the future has in store for him. Also, since Hamlet has, "gone crazy" it shows how negative he is being lately, and we know something is wrong with him.

2.) Rosencrantz says dreams are, "airy and light". The airy and light could mean that he sees his future clearer and uses it in a more positive assumption and future plans. This shows us just how different Hamlets and Rosencrantz's perspectives are about things right now.

3.)  when Hamlet calls Polonius a "fishmonger", this means he is downgrading him. Polonius has a high reputation, and to call him a fishmonger would be considered a very rude insult. He is implying that Polonius could be dishonest or sneaky, because those are qualities a fishmonger is known for.

Act 2 Personal Reaction-Tori

I thought it was interesting how King Claudius acts when the sanity of Hamlet is questioned.  I think that he doesn't trust Hamlet, and knows that Hamlet is cunning and intelligent enough to uncover the truth of King Hamlet's death, therefore he feels that he must do whatever is necessary in order to label Hamlet as a "lunatic."  I also find it strange that Polonius feels that it is necessary to make up a lie about Hamlet writing a love letter to Ophelia.  I don't understand what good that this would do for him or anyone else for that matter.  When the Queen, Rosencrantz, and Guildenstrern do not stand up for Hamlet against the ambassadors, the King, and Polonuis I start to question their loyalties, and their character for they seem to either have no loyalty, or they feel that they have no choice in the matter.

Act 2 Clarification Questions-Tori

1. Why does Polonius give Reynaldo advice on how to have a conversation with someone?

2. Where do Rosencrants and Guildenstern's true loyalties lie?

3. The Queen knows partly why Hamlet is acting strange, yet she doesn't stand up for him. Why?

4. King Claudius refuses to believe that the main thing wrong with Hamlet, is his father's death.  Why?  Is he trying to ruin Hamlet's reputation?  Does he trust Hamlet?

5. Why does Polonius make up the fake letter from Hamlet to Ophelia?

It was hard for me to understand exactly who trusted who in this act.  The allegiances and alliances made within the book so far have been unclear and deceiving, making it hard to understand the true motives of many of the characters.

Friday, November 2, 2012

Personal Reaction by Abbie Clark

I am very intrigued with this book so far. It seems to be like a  soap opera with all the love, lust, heartbreak and hate that takes place in this Act alone. Obviously Ophelia and Hamlet have a thing going on but they are separated by Ophelia's lack of royal blood. It doesn't seem that Hamlet is too concerned with her at this point because he is still coming to terms with his father's death and the marriage of his mother to his uncle. Some people would find Hamlet to be melodramatic in the ways in which he is acting and such but I find that I can empathize with him. I cannot imagine what I would do if I were in his situation. To arrive  to a place once called home after being away for months and realizing with a heavy heart that everything I had ever known was gone and then to discover  that the  future was plagued with evil as dark as night for I swore revenge on my fathers murderer; my uncle none the less... Hamlet is much more composed than I could ever imagine being if I were in his shoes. When Hamlet swore this revenge, I immediately thought of all the numerous ways in which this story could end. I have never come across the ending to Hamlet, but considering that Shakespeare is the author, I imagine it will end in tragedy.

Clarity Questions by Abbie Clark

Why does Polonius and Laertes forbid Ophelia from having anything to do with Hamlet?

What did the Ghost ask Hamlet to do?

What did Horatio and Marcellus swear to do?

Who killed the former King of Denmark?

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Personal Response Annie Cruz

My reaction to Act 1 in Hamlet is disquist. The fact that a person could possibly be so power greedy that they would take their own siblings life is horrific. Althought Hamlet's reaction to being enlightened of the cause of his father's death wasn't what I expected, I do beleive that he will overall get his vengence on King Claudius. I find that Hamlet is a very depressed character. Hes very emotional and sensitive for the usual masculine role. Also, I find it interesting that Shakespear involves and refers to ghosts in this story. When Hamlet's father's spirit communicates with him i found it to be a very important part of the story because this sets Hamlet's actions for the rest of the play.

Hamlet Questions Act 1

1. Why doesn't Hamlet talk to his mother about why she is marrying his uncle?

2. So what kept Hamlet from coming to his fathers wedding?

3. Why do Horatio and Marcellus not want Hamlet to go and talk to the ghost in private?

4. What gives Claudius the nerve to speak about his dead brother in front of all those people and right in Hamlets face?

-Ashton T.Jones

Symbols/Allusions by Annie

In Act 1 scene 2, Hamlet refers to King Claudius when he states, "Tis an unweeded garden that grows a seed. things rank and gross in nature possess it merely." This allusion is very important because it clearly expresses Hamlet's anger and emotions towards his uncle and mother's marriage. Hamlet is beyond depressed and bewildered at how his mother is not still mourning his fathers death. He feels as if Claudius is a seed in a weed garden, this is because Hamlet has no desire for Claudius to take the place of his father, he beleives that King Claudius is very unwanted.

The second allusion that Shakespear makes is to the serpant(Act 1 scene 5)When Hamlet is speaking with the ghost, his fathers spirt, he informs Hamlet
the true cause of his death, his alludes to King Claudius as the surpent who stung him. This alludes to the devil, as the serpent in the Garden of Eden. He is the one who caused evil to the world, and by Hamlet's father referring to King Claudius as a serpant, he is expressing his opinion of the evil which drives the new king. Claudius is a very manipulitive person and will do whatever possible to recieve power.

Personal response, Rachel Myers

I like how the story is getting much better to read, it is actually interesting because Hamlet has found out this new information that it was his own Uncle that killed his father. I think this upsets and makes him even more mad that his mother and uncle are married now. Everyone thought it was a snake that killed his father but it was poison given to him by his uncle. I predict that eventually it will come out that Hamlet knows this since his two friends were there and heard it, but I don't think people are going to believe him. The hardest part about reading this is you have to pay really close attention to the language used because at times it can be difficult to understand.

Language, Rachel Myers

1)  pg. 7, act 1, scene 1
Barnardo: "if you meet Horatio and Marcellus, the rivals of my watch, bid them make haste."
-this means The are "fellow sentries" but if they came send them on their way quickly.
-it makes the the tone of the story feel rushed.

2) pg. 27, act 1, scene 2
King: "you are the most immediate to the throne."
-this is directed towards Hamlet and means after him he is the next to be king.
-it shows how heartless this king is to Hamlet. hamlet should've been the one to be king, instead of him. He is trying to make Hamlet move on from his fathers death, even though he is still obviously grieving.

3) pg. 31, act 1, scene 2
Hamlet: "o God a beast that wants discourse of reason would've mourned longer!"
-This means that even a monster with no heart would have mourned over this longer then his Uncle did.
-It shows that Hamlet is mad, you can feel his pain and suffering because this is his father that is gone, plus his mother has a new husband, which is his uncle. You understand how mad Hamlet is toward his new "father" and mother.

4) pg. 51, act 1, scene 4
Hamlet: "O'erleavens"
-This means radically changes.
-It adds to the effect of how the old the languages used is. It is much different then how we talk today.

5) pg. 59, act 1, scene 5
Ghost: "hebona"
-Hebona is a type of poison.
-This explains how the real King died. The tone makes you feel like things are now speechless, because we have learned it was the King's own brother that killed him.

Who's Who, Hannah

Hamlet- Hamlet is the son of the late king of Denmark. He is the very upset with his mother for marrying his father's brother so soon after his father's death. He is also upset to see so much celebration during this sad time. However, Hamlet is a good son and tries to keep his feelings to himself so he can make his mother happy.
Horatio- Horatio is Hamlet's best friend and he is the one that suggest they should tell Hamlet about seeing his father's ghost. Horatio looks out for Hamlet and wants the best for him. He gives Hamlet advice and stands by his side through all of Hamlet's situations.
The King- The king at this point in the story is Hamlet's uncle. He has just married Hamlet's mother. The king seems to be a little overbearing and arrogant. He thinks Hamlet should put everything that is bothering him behind him and be strong and happy. He seems to have a straightforward personality and he seems to be a person that will do anything to get what he wants.
Ophelia- Ophelia is a young lady living in the castle. She is the sister of  Laertes. She seems to have a mind of her own but she listens to all the advice that her brother and father try to give her. Even though she will probably just do whatever she wants.
Laertes- Laertes is a young man that has lived in the castle and is now going off to France. He seems to be a quiet and shy guy that just wants to do his own thing. He seems protective over his younger sister and tells her to stay away from Hamlet so she does not get hurt.
Polonius- Polonius is the father of Ophelia and Laertes. He seems to want the best for his children therefore he gives them adive. He gives Laertes advice on how to be the best man he can be and he gives Ophelia advice on her relationship with Prince Hamlet.
The Queen- The queen is Hamlet's mother and she is married to Hamlet's uncle. She tries to sympathize with Hamlet but she really wants him to cheer up. The queen seems to be a lady that is easily manipulated. She only knows what her new husband has told her and even though her husband has died not long ago she believes she still needs to be happy and Hamlet should be happy too.

Personal Reaction, Tori

My personal opinion of Hamlet's situation is that everything that has happened to him is ridiculous and sad.  It is wrong of his mother to marry his uncle after such a short period of time that has passed after his father's death.  It is also very shocking that Hamlet discovers that the supposed "ghost" is his father, and it is ironic that he finds out that his father was murdered by his uncle, the new king of Denmark.  It is also wrong of the kingdom to move on from King Hamlet's death as quickly as they did, because he was a great king and deserved more.  As of right now Hamlet is no longer depressed, but once he has had his revenge, I feel that his depression may resurface, as for him to have any emotion right now is better than him feeling nothing at all, and that is why his need for revenge is so strong.

Act 1 Key Passages, Tori

1. Act 1, scene 2
In this scene, Hamlet is left alone in the room after a celebration for the marriage of his mother and his uncle.  He starts a very long epiphany in which he communicates his disgust for the happiness of the kingdom of Denmark despite the great sadness that has been placed upon himself and the country due to his father's death.  He feels that his father deserved more, as if to say that his father is important and that the kingdom should honor his memory accordingly and respectively before moving on and celebrating a new, ironic, and disrespectful conjoining of marriage.

2. Act 1, scene 3
In this scene, Polonius and Laertes, Ophelia's brother and father, are instructing her to not associate with Hamlet.  When she protests they continue to try convince her that she should not affiliate with him, and in the end despite her efforts to persuade them otherwise, forbid her from associate with him, claiming that he isn't good enough for her.  This begs the question of why the father and brother should care, because Hamlet is the prince, and should be good enough, if not better, than her.  This also proposes the idea that because of their strange accusations about Hamlet, that they must know something that Ophelia and many others do not know.

3. Act 1, scene 5
In this scene, Hamlet finally encounters the "ghost."  It is in this scene that he discovers that the "ghost" is his father.  Once he figures this out, his father's ghost continues to tell Hamlet that he was murdered, and that the person who murdered him is his uncle, and his mother's new husband.  At this new bit of information Hamlet is shocked and is filled with a new emotion: revenge.  However, Hamlet keeps his composure with the new information in order to think clearly and to keep it to himself so that he does not act irrationaly.  By discovering that the ghost is his father, and by learning that his father was murdered, Hamlet is no longer depressed, but is now filled with revenge, and wants to bring justice to his father's death.