Family / Dysfunctional Family / Power

Question 1

Key ideas for Family / Dysfunctional Family / Power

Answer 1

Betrayal, oedipal tensions, political power as family inheritance.

Question 2

Key quotes for Family / Dysfunctional Family / Power

Answer 2

“A little more than kin, and less than kind.” (Hamlet, 1.2)

“O, what a rogue and peasant slave am I!” (Hamlet, 2.2)

“Do not forget: this visitation / Is but to whet thy almost blunted purpose.” (Ghost, 3.4)

Question 3

Characters that link to Family / Dysfunctional Family / Power

Answer 3

Hamlet and Claudius: Nephew/uncle power struggle.

Polonius and his children: Surveillance and control.

Question 4

Context for Family / Dysfunctional Family / Power

Answer 4

Succession anxiety under Elizabeth I—mirrored in Denmark’s instability.

Oedipal tension—Freudian criticism focuses on Hamlet’s repressed desires toward Gertrude.

Question 5

Interpretation of Family / Dysfunctional Family / Power

Answer 5

Marxist critics may interpret the play as a struggle for power disguised as familial duty.