Hamlet Act 1 Quiz

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  • 1/10 Questions

    What do Marcellus and Bernardo want to show Horatio?

    • Their wives
    • Prince Hamlet
    • A ghost
    • Other watchmen
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About This Quiz


The Hamlet Act 1 Quiz is a fascinating opportunity to test your knowledge and understanding of the opening act of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays. This quiz delves into the intricacies of the plot, characters, and themes introduced in Act 1, challenging you to recall key events and analyze the motivations of the characters. From the ghostly appearance to the iconic "To be or not to be" soliloquy, this quiz covers it all. Whether you're a seasoned Shakespeare enthusiast or new to the world of Hamlet, this quiz offers a chance to engage with the text and deepen your appreciation for this timeless tragedy.

Hamlet Act 1 Quiz - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    Who is now married to King Hamlet's wife?

    • Polonius

    • Claudius

    • Laertes

    • Cornelius

    Correct Answer
    A. Claudius
    Explanation
    Claudius is now married to King Hamlet's wife. This is evident in the play "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare, where Claudius marries Gertrude, who was previously married to King Hamlet. After King Hamlet's death, Claudius becomes the new king and takes Gertrude as his wife, solidifying his position of power.

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  • 3. 

    Which character delivers the famous "To be or not to be" soliloquy?

    • Claudius

    • Laertes

    • Hamlet

    • Polonius

    Correct Answer
    A. Hamlet
    Explanation
    Hamlet delivers the famous "To be or not to be" soliloquy. This soliloquy is one of the most well-known speeches in Shakespeare's play, Hamlet. In this soliloquy, Hamlet contemplates the nature of life and death, pondering whether it is better to exist or to end one's suffering. It is a pivotal moment in the play, showcasing Hamlet's introspective and philosophical nature.

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  • 4. 

    What does King Claudius say he is in mourning over?

    • The death of his father

    • The death of his son

    • The death of his brother

    • His recent marriage

    Correct Answer
    A. The death of his brother
    Explanation
    King Claudius says he is in mourning over the death of his brother. This suggests that his brother's death has had a significant impact on him and is the reason for his grieving. It also provides insight into the character of King Claudius and the emotional turmoil he may be experiencing due to this loss.

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  • 5. 

    What proves to Horatio that the ghost is that of King Hamlet?

    • His accent

    • His resemblance to Prince Hamlet

    • His armor

    • His story

    Correct Answer
    A. His armor
    Explanation
    The ghost's armor proves to Horatio that it is the ghost of King Hamlet because it is a distinct and recognizable symbol of his identity. The armor would have been worn by the king during battles and is therefore a personal item that only he would have possessed. This physical evidence confirms the ghost's identity and convinces Horatio that it is indeed the spirit of King Hamlet.

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  • 6. 

    What does Prince Hamlet contemplate doing because he is upset?

    • Killing himself

    • Running away

    • Eloping

    • Attacking Fortinbras

    Correct Answer
    A. Killing himself
    Explanation
    Prince Hamlet contemplates killing himself because he is upset. This is evident in the play when he delivers his famous soliloquy, "To be, or not to be, that is the question." Hamlet is overwhelmed by grief and despair due to the death of his father and the betrayal of his mother. He questions the purpose of life and considers suicide as a way to escape his suffering. This contemplation reflects Hamlet's deep emotional turmoil and his struggle to find meaning in a world filled with deceit and injustice.

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  • 7. 

    How does Horatio explain the appearance of King Hamlet's ghost?

    • He says it's a warning sign

    • He says it's a sign of peace

    • He claims it's a sign of the King's wishes for his son

    • He calls it a sign of the occult

    Correct Answer
    A. He says it's a warning sign
    Explanation
    Horatio explains the appearance of King Hamlet's ghost as a warning sign.

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  • 8. 

    Who joins Bernardo, a watchman, on his watch of the castle?

    • Francisco and Horatio

    • Marcellus and Horatio

    • Prince Hamlet and Marcellus

    • Francisco and Prince Hamlet

    Correct Answer
    A. Marcellus and Horatio
    Explanation
    Marcellus and Horatio join Bernardo, the watchman, on his watch of the castle. This is evident from the given options where "Marcellus and Horatio" is the only combination that includes both of them.

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  • 9. 

    What do Claudius and Gertrude want Prince Hamlet to do?

    • Go back to school

    • Stay close to them

    • Become king

    • Get married

    Correct Answer
    A. Stay close to them
    Explanation
    Claudius and Gertrude want Prince Hamlet to stay close to them. This suggests that they want to keep a close eye on him and maintain control over him. They may have ulterior motives for wanting him nearby, such as ensuring his loyalty or preventing him from discovering the truth about his father's death. By keeping him close, they can manipulate and influence him more easily.

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  • 10. 

    Who is the first character to see the ghost of King Hamlet?

    • Marcellus

    • Hamlet

    • Horatio

    • Polonius

    Correct Answer
    A. Marcellus
    Explanation
    Marcellus is the first character to see the ghost of King Hamlet. This is evident in Act I, Scene 1 of Shakespeare's play "Hamlet". Marcellus, along with Barnardo, witnesses the appearance of the ghost on the battlements of Elsinore Castle. He informs Horatio about this sighting and they later share this information with Hamlet. Marcellus' encounter with the ghost sets the stage for the supernatural elements and the central plot of avenging King Hamlet's murder.

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Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Aug 11, 2023 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Aug 11, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Jul 20, 2015
    Quiz Created by
    Blkk
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