1. TEST REVIEW: Author Information and Use of Foils
Hamlet
TEST REVIEW: Author Information and Use of Foils

2. SHAKESPEARE
Born in Stratford-on-Avon on April 23 (?), 1564; died on April 23, 1616
Wrote at least 37 plays and at least 150 sonnets
Hamlet is his longest play; it may have been named after his son Hamnet, who died of the plague around the time it was first performed

3. foils Fortinbras—is bold Claudius—is calm
Horatio—is a Stoic, showing little emotion
Laertes—skilled fencer; kills against his conscience
Claudius—plots against Hamlet secretly
Hamlet—hesitates to act
Hamlet—is emotional
Hamlet—is passionate
Hamlet—less skilled fencer; kills to follow his conscience
Hamlet—attacks Claudius openly in Act V

4. More FOILS Horatio—wise
Horatio—follow Prince Hamlet of his own free will
Gertrude—wife of two kings and mother of Hamlet
King Hamlet—handsome man; bold warrior
Polonius—biased Rosencrantz & Guildenstern—follow King Claudius’s orders
Ophelia—innocent young maiden
King Claudius—plain man; calm negotiator