Question 1a. In this passage, Hamlet, shocked to discover that Ophelia is dead, is involved in both a physical and verbal battle with Laertes.

To understand the nature of the confrontation with Laertes, let’s begin by imagining where each of the characters is when Hamlet announces his presence. Place the main characters on the stage in the diagram below; the priest, bearers, and attendant lords are already there, ready to intervene when called upon by Claudius.

N.B. There is no definitive correct answer to this question, the suggested correct response is only one interpretation.