What keeps Hamlet from following through with his plans to avenge his father?
1. Action or Inaction – What keeps Hamlet from following through with his plans to avenge his father? Is his indecisiveness justifiable or is he too hesitant to take action? 2. Certainty – Is it possible to be completely certain of something? How much information do you need to prove the certainty of something? If you were Hamlet, when, if ever, would you have been certain that Claudius had something to do with your father’s death? 3. Death – How is the mystery of death explored through Hamlet? What role does religion play in Hamlet’s thoughts on death? Do you believe the death of Claudius would bring revenge to Hamlet’s father’s death? 4. Play Within a Play – In what ways does Shakespeare use a “play within a play” to further the story? Why does Hamlet decide to put on a play? What is Hamlet looking for in putting on the play and is he successful in his mission? 5. Love and Suffering – How closely related are the ideas of love and suffering? Does anyone fall in love in this play who doesn’t suffer? How does this relate to your own life?
