Question

How does Gertrude react to the play that is similar to the real circumstances of the king's death?

a. She is shocked and disturbed
b. She remains composed and unemotional
c. She laughs at the portrayal
d. She leaves the room in anger

Answer 1

Gertrude remains composed during the play in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', underscoring Hamlet's frustration with her lack of reaction to the sensitive implications about her late husband's death.

The Correct Option is; b. She remains composed and unemotional.

Step-by-step explanation:

Gertrude's reaction to the play within the play in Shakespeare's Hamlet is not one of observable distress such as that demonstrated by Claudius, who is clearly disturbed and leaves in a hurry.

Instead, Gertrude remains relatively composed and displays little emotion. Her response does not mirror the intense reaction one might expect, given the play's reflection of her late husband's suspected murder, a fact which underscores Hamlet's later frustration with her.

The character of Gertrude is often critiqued for her lack of depth and her insensitivity to the truth behind her former husband's death, which exacerbates Hamlet's anguish.