Question

skill: dramatic elements and structure
reread lines 102–126 from hamlet. then, using the checklist on the previous page, answer the multiple-choice questions below.
your turn

1. this scene is from the second act of hamlet. the author’s choice to use a soliloquy at this point in the play helps advance the plot by —

a. making the audience approve of hamlet’s plan to get revenge on his family later in the play.
b. allowing hamlet’s family to find out what he is plotting, which enables them to foil his plan.
c. creating a mood of forgiveness that will affect hamlet’s actions toward his uncle and mother.
d. creating tension in the rising action of the play as the audience learns of hamlet’s plan for revenge.

1. the author’s choice to use a soliloquy in this part of the play is effective because it —

a. leaves no question in the audience’s mind that hamlet, alone on stage, is revealing his own inner thoughts and feelings.
b. allows hamlet to be alone on stage so that he can tell the audience directly that he enjoys putting on plays.
c. gives hamlet a chance to get the audience to react to the claim that he is a rogue and a villain.
d. gives other actors a chance to be off stage so they can prepare for future scenes.

Explanation:

Question 1

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• Option A: A soliloquy doesn't aim for audience approval of revenge on family (focus is on Hamlet's internal & plot, not audience approval of family revenge). Eliminate.
• Option B: Soliloquies are private (Hamlet alone), so family can't overhear. Eliminate.
• Option C: Hamlet's soliloquy here is about revenge, not forgiveness. Eliminate.
• Option D: A soliloquy reveals Hamlet's revenge plan, building tension in the rising action (as audience knows his plan, waiting for its execution). This fits.

Analyze each option:

• Option A: A soliloquy is when a character speaks alone, revealing inner thoughts/feelings. This matches the purpose of a soliloquy (Hamlet alone, sharing his mind).
• Option B: The soliloquy isn't about enjoying plays; it's about his thoughts (like revenge). Eliminate.
• Option C: Soliloquies are for character's self - revelation, not audience reaction to being called rogue. Eliminate.
• Option D: Soliloquies are for the character's development, not actor preparation. Eliminate.

Answer:

D. creating tension in the rising action of the play as the audience learns of Hamlet’s plan for revenge.

Question 2