1. AP Literature and Composition November 23, 2015 Agenda: Turn in Homework: Exam item analysis TPCASTTs and Poetry questions on imagery Hamlet introductory power point ~ note taking Hamlet themes and Unit 3 essential questions

2. Thematic Ideas Hamlet Revenge: Hamlet searches continuously for the answer to the question of whether or not he should avenge his father’s death. His concern with right and wrong in religious, moral, and political terms causes him much inner turmoil. Appearance vs. Reality: The play contains many situations in which the surface appearance of things does not always match reality. Hamlet struggles to determine who his true friends are; the players in the acting troupe assume new identities; Claudius appears to be a true and just king and Gertrude his virtuous queen. Sanity vs. Insanity: In many ways this conflict is intertwined with the theme of appearance vs. reality. Hamlet’s sanity or insanity has baffled critics for years. Even the characters in the play discuss inconsistencies in Hamlet’s behavior, sometimes assuming he is really insane, at other times amazed by his clarity of thought. Decay and Corruption: Among the most powerful images of the play are those which reveal disintegrating situations, especially in personal terms for Prince Hamlet. Also, Shakespeare considered evil to be a disease that spreads. Notice how even the natural world is affected by the sins in the play.

3. Essential Questions Unit 3 Hamlet What literary devices or techniques do writers use to develop complex meanings of subjects discussed in literature? How does Shakespeare use literary techniques/devices to create a true representation of a human being? Is loyalty to myself, and my own values, more important than loyalty to a friend? Can one (apparently) have all the right information and make the wrong decisions?