Next we will read 3.3 in our small groups. After you read the short scene with your group, you will focus on "translating" the last two speeches (Claudius and Hamlet). Go back and summarize the main point of each character in your annotations. If you were judging from this scene ONLY, who would seem more villainous? How does this scene highlight the complexity of both characters? Note: Many literary critics view Hamlet as attempting to "play God" in this scene, attempting to dole out more than just earthly justice. How do you think Shakespeare's original audience would feel about this?
We will eventually (early next week) be writing a timed essay on Claudius' soliloquy here. Take some time to define words you don't know, look up allusions that are unfamiliar, and discuss the literary devices you see with your group members.