- 1
Why do you think Shakespeare inserts the comic interaction between the gravediggers right before Ophelia's funeral?
Responses will vary. As with any instance of comic relief, the primary purpose of the gravediggers is to break the unrelenting gloom of the previous scenes, and to provide a respite before the heartbreaking spectacle of Ophelia's funeral. In other sense, the gravedigger scene also allows for a different perspective on one of the play's main themes - death.
- 2
What do we learn about Gertrude's plans for Hamlet and Gertrude in scene 1? How does this contradict what we learned about their relationship in Act I?
In the burial scene, we learn that Gertrude...
Join Now to View Premium Content
GradeSaver provides access to 2368 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11018 literature essays, 2792 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.
