A Story Of Revenge

Worksheet Description

This worksheet is designed to delve into the complex layers of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet,” examining it as a quintessential revenge tragedy. The first question prompts students to consider the internal and external conflicts Hamlet faces as he grapples with the moral and existential dilemmas of avenging his father’s murder. Students are encouraged to articulate the personal, ethical, and practical obstacles that delay Hamlet’s action against Claudius, offering a chance to discuss themes of indecision, conscience, and the nature of justice.

The second section invites an analysis of how Shakespeare revolutionized the revenge tragedy genre with “Hamlet.” Students are asked to reflect on the philosophical questions raised by the play, such as the meaning of life, death, and the nature of evil, thereby recognizing the depth Shakespeare added to a genre previously characterized by a simpler moral universe. The final question asks students to theorize why Shakespeare might have chosen to satirize earlier revenge tragedies within “Hamlet,” prompting a discussion on the evolution of literary genres and the play’s self-awareness within its historical context. Through these questions, the worksheet guides students in exploring “Hamlet” not only as a story of revenge but also as a profound exploration of human psychology and philosophy.