Read the excerpt from Act IV of Hamlet . Claudius: Follow her close; give her good watch, I pray you. [ Exit HORATIO.] O! this is the poison of deep grief; it springs All from her father's death. O Gertrude, Gertrude! When sorrows come, they come not single spies, But in battalions. First, her father slain; Next, your son gone; but he most violent author Of his own just remove: the people muddied, Thick and unwholesome in their thoughts and whispers, For good Polonius’ death; and we have done but greenly, In hugger-mugger to inter him: poor Ophelia Divided from herself and her fair judgment, Without the which we are pictures, or mere beasts How does the excerpt reveal character development?
Answer
A
Claudius shows his resolve to help Ophelia by suggesting medical attention.
B
Claudius exhibits sincere mourning for his friend Polonius.
C
Claudius shows his regret for previous behavior by seeking forgiveness.
D
Claudius exhibits sensitivity toward Ophelia and regret for his actions.
Explanation
Claudius recognizes that Ophelia is overwhelmed by grief after her father’s death and expresses concern for her suffering. He also admits that Polonius was buried hastily and secretly, saying they acted “greenly” and “in hugger-mugger,” which suggests regret about how they handled the burial. He does not seek forgiveness or suggest medical treatment, so B best describes his development.
AI-written and checked against the verified answer.