Act 4 Scene 7

Question 1

‘knowing ear that he which hath your noble slain pursu’d my life.’

Answer 1

Claudius praises Laertes ability to discern the truth. He very cleverly highlights that they have a common enemy- attempts to unite - machiavellian

Question 2

‘the queen his mother’

Answer 2

Claudius as weak - does not act on P’s death

Question 3

‘Upon my life, Lamord’

Answer 3

Claudius simply agrees- machiavellian, manipulating Laertes grief, getting others to be ignoble on his behalf

Question 4

‘was your father dear to you? Or are you like the painting of a sorrow’

Answer 4

Questioning fuels Laertes action through anger. Metaphor suggests his grief is being feigned