<p>ACT III Scene 1 - Hamlet’s soliloquy suggests that despite his plan, Hamlet is troubled by the future.</p><p>1. What is the content and theme of the “To be” soliloquy? 2. How does Claudius infer his guilt? 3. Describe the arranged meeting between Hamlet and Ophelia? 4. How can we assume that Hamlet realizes that he is being watched? 5. What are Claudius’ reactions to the meeting between Hamlet and Ophelia? 6. What can you infer from Claudius’ plans for Hamlet?</p><p>Scene 2 - The results of the play within a play are revealed and Hamlet’s reaction is very overt but yet no action is taken.</p><p>1. How does Hamlet demonstrate his trust for Horatio? 2. Summarize the play within a play? 3. What is the King’s reaction and what does that indicate to Hamlet? 4. Why have Rosencrantz and Guildenstern returned to see Hamlet? 5. What is Hamlet upset about regarding Rosencrantz and Guildenstern and the recorders?</p><p>Scene 3 - Claudius takes steps to send Hamlet away but Hamlet does not take advantage of an opportunity to resolve the issues.</p><p>1. What does Claudius direct Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to do? 2. What does Claudius reveal before praying? 3. What prevents the King from forgiveness? 4. Explain how Claudius is shown in a sympathetic manner. 5. What are Hamlet’s reasons for not taking action against the King? Scene 4 - This scene is considered by some to be the turning point of the play. The return of the ghost is explained as is Gertrude’s attitudes and concern for her son.</p><p>1. How does Polonius meet his death? 2. Is Polonius’ ending appropriate? 3. What does Hamlet accuse Gertrude of? 4. What is the purpose for the appearance of the ghost? 5. What are Gertrude’s reactions to this situation? 6. What request does Hamlet make of Gertrude regarding her relationship with the King? 7. What does Hamlet realize about his “friends” and his trip to England?</p><p>Summary of Act III - Hamlet’s treatment of Ophelia comes to a head while his situation leads Claudius to make a decision about his future. Hamlet loses an opportunity to resolve the main conflict but his actions with Polonius certainly adds to the suspense and tension for future events</p><p>1. Of the three major events in Act III, which do you feel is the turning point of the play? 2. What do you think of Polonius fate and Hamlet’s reaction to it? 3. Why is his fate justified?</p>