Open the App

Subjects

English Language

24 Nov 2025

595

3 pages

Hamlet Act-by-Act Plot Overview

user profile picture

lily wilkes @lilywilkes

Hamlet is Shakespeare's most famous tragedy about a Danish prince who must avenge his father's murder. The play... Show more

Act 1
The play commences with the reappearance of a ghost, which resembles the late
King Hamlet, during the night vigil of the watchmen Barn

Acts 1-2 The Ghost's Revelation and Hamlet's Plan

Everything kicks off when watchmen spot a ghost that looks exactly like Denmark's recently deceased king. Meanwhile, Claudius has married Queen Gertrude just two months after her husband's death, and he's now ruling as the new king.

When Hamlet encounters this ghostly apparition, he discovers a shocking truth Claudius murdered his father by pouring poison in his ear whilst he slept. The ghost demands that Hamlet seek revenge, setting the entire tragic plot in motion.

Hamlet decides to fake madness whilst he figures out how to get his revenge. His erratic behaviour worries everyone, especially Ophelia, who's been told by her father Polonius to avoid Hamlet completely. Claudius and Polonius spy on Hamlet to understand what's causing his strange conduct.

Key Point Hamlet's famous "To be or not to be" soliloquy happens here, where he contemplates suicide and the meaning of existence. This sets up a travelling theatre troupe to perform a play that mirrors his father's murder, hoping to catch Claudius's guilty reaction.

Act 1
The play commences with the reappearance of a ghost, which resembles the late
King Hamlet, during the night vigil of the watchmen Barn

Act 3-4 Evidence, Murder, and Consequences

Hamlet's clever plan works perfectly. During the play-within-a-play, Claudius's reaction confirms his guilt when he abruptly stops the performance. However, when Hamlet has the perfect opportunity to kill Claudius whilst he's praying, he hesitates and doesn't take it.

During a heated confrontation with his mother, Hamlet accidentally kills Polonius, who was hiding behind a curtain eavesdropping. This impulsive act changes everything and gives Claudius the perfect excuse to banish Hamlet to England.

Ophelia goes genuinely mad after losing her father and having Hamlet sent away. Her descent into actual madness contrasts sharply with Hamlet's performed insanity. Meanwhile, Laertes returns from France seeking vengeance for his father's death.

Critical Development Claudius manipulates Laertes's grief and anger, convincing him to challenge Hamlet to a duel with a poison-tipped sword. As backup, Claudius prepares a poisoned drink, ensuring Hamlet's death either way.

Act 1
The play commences with the reappearance of a ghost, which resembles the late
King Hamlet, during the night vigil of the watchmen Barn

Act 5 The Final Duel and Tragic Conclusion

The tragedy reaches its devastating climax when Hamlet accepts Laertes's challenge to what appears to be a friendly fencing match. Neither man knows the full extent of Claudius's deadly scheme, but both are driven by their desire for revenge.

The duel becomes a bloodbath when Queen Gertrude accidentally drinks the poisoned wine meant for Hamlet. Both Hamlet and Laertes wound each other with the poisoned sword, sealing both their fates.

In his dying moments, Laertes reveals Claudius's treachery, finally giving Hamlet the clear justification he needed. Hamlet kills Claudius with both the poisoned sword and the remaining poisoned wine, achieving his revenge at last.

Powerful Ending As Hamlet dies, he asks his loyal friend Horatio to tell his story to future generations. The play ends with nearly all the main characters dead, showing how the cycle of revenge ultimately destroys everyone involved.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

15

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Hamlet's Core Themes

Explore the intricate themes of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', including the tension between appearance and reality, the destructive nature of revenge, the inevitability of mortality, and the complexities of love and order. This analysis delves into Shakespeare's intentions and the profound implications of these themes on the characters and the narrative. Ideal for students seeking a deeper understanding of the play's critical interpretations.

English LanguageEnglish Language
12

Eulogy of Youth

Explore the poignant themes of nostalgia, family, and the idealization of motherhood in Carol Ann Duffy's 'Before You Were Mine'. This analysis includes a detailed examination of key quotes, language techniques, and the cultural context of the 1950s, providing insights into the mother-daughter relationship and the impact of societal expectations on personal identity. Ideal for students studying poetry and literary analysis.

English Lang.English Lang.
12

Moira's Resistance in Gilead

Explore the character of Moira in 'The Handmaid's Tale' and her role as a symbol of resilience against oppressive regimes. This essay delves into themes of feminism, mental health, and the impact of Gilead's dystopian society on women's spirits. Ideal for students studying dystopian literature and feminist themes. Achieved A* grade in mock test.

English LanguageEnglish Language
12

Failure and Regret in Duffy's Poetry

Explore the intricate themes of failure and regret in Carol Ann Duffy's poems 'The Biographer' and 'Mean Time'. This analysis delves into the contrasting portrayals of personal loss, emotional turmoil, and the philosophical reflections on relationships. Ideal for students studying poetry and literary themes, this summary highlights key elements such as structure, language, and emotional depth, providing a comprehensive understanding of Duffy's work.

English LanguageEnglish Language
13

A Streetcar Named Desire Themes

Explore the key themes and character dynamics in Tennessee Williams' 'A Streetcar Named Desire'. This summary covers the intricate relationships, class tensions, and psychological struggles depicted throughout the play, providing insights into Blanche's tragic journey and the impact of Stanley's dominance. Ideal for students studying literature and drama.

English Lang.English Lang.
12

Contrasting Views of Paris

Explore the contrasting perspectives of Paris in this A-grade essay comparing the persuasive Eurostar advert 'Stories are Waiting' with Ernest Hemingway's critical piece 'American Bohemians in Paris'. This analysis delves into themes of tourism, representation, and the use of humor in both texts, providing insights into how each text shapes the reader's perception of the city. Ideal for students studying English literature and language analysis.

English LanguageEnglish Language
12

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

English Language

595

24 Nov 2025

3 pages

Hamlet Act-by-Act Plot Overview

user profile picture

lily wilkes

@lilywilkes

Hamlet is Shakespeare's most famous tragedy about a Danish prince who must avenge his father's murder. The play explores themes of revenge, madness, and moral corruption through one of literature's most complex characters.

Act 1
The play commences with the reappearance of a ghost, which resembles the late
King Hamlet, during the night vigil of the watchmen Barn

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Acts 1-2: The Ghost's Revelation and Hamlet's Plan

Everything kicks off when watchmen spot a ghost that looks exactly like Denmark's recently deceased king. Meanwhile, Claudius has married Queen Gertrude just two months after her husband's death, and he's now ruling as the new king.

When Hamlet encounters this ghostly apparition, he discovers a shocking truth: Claudius murdered his father by pouring poison in his ear whilst he slept. The ghost demands that Hamlet seek revenge, setting the entire tragic plot in motion.

Hamlet decides to fake madness whilst he figures out how to get his revenge. His erratic behaviour worries everyone, especially Ophelia, who's been told by her father Polonius to avoid Hamlet completely. Claudius and Polonius spy on Hamlet to understand what's causing his strange conduct.

Key Point: Hamlet's famous "To be or not to be" soliloquy happens here, where he contemplates suicide and the meaning of existence. This sets up a travelling theatre troupe to perform a play that mirrors his father's murder, hoping to catch Claudius's guilty reaction.

Act 1
The play commences with the reappearance of a ghost, which resembles the late
King Hamlet, during the night vigil of the watchmen Barn

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Act 3-4: Evidence, Murder, and Consequences

Hamlet's clever plan works perfectly. During the play-within-a-play, Claudius's reaction confirms his guilt when he abruptly stops the performance. However, when Hamlet has the perfect opportunity to kill Claudius whilst he's praying, he hesitates and doesn't take it.

During a heated confrontation with his mother, Hamlet accidentally kills Polonius, who was hiding behind a curtain eavesdropping. This impulsive act changes everything and gives Claudius the perfect excuse to banish Hamlet to England.

Ophelia goes genuinely mad after losing her father and having Hamlet sent away. Her descent into actual madness contrasts sharply with Hamlet's performed insanity. Meanwhile, Laertes returns from France seeking vengeance for his father's death.

Critical Development: Claudius manipulates Laertes's grief and anger, convincing him to challenge Hamlet to a duel with a poison-tipped sword. As backup, Claudius prepares a poisoned drink, ensuring Hamlet's death either way.

Act 1
The play commences with the reappearance of a ghost, which resembles the late
King Hamlet, during the night vigil of the watchmen Barn

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Act 5: The Final Duel and Tragic Conclusion

The tragedy reaches its devastating climax when Hamlet accepts Laertes's challenge to what appears to be a friendly fencing match. Neither man knows the full extent of Claudius's deadly scheme, but both are driven by their desire for revenge.

The duel becomes a bloodbath when Queen Gertrude accidentally drinks the poisoned wine meant for Hamlet. Both Hamlet and Laertes wound each other with the poisoned sword, sealing both their fates.

In his dying moments, Laertes reveals Claudius's treachery, finally giving Hamlet the clear justification he needed. Hamlet kills Claudius with both the poisoned sword and the remaining poisoned wine, achieving his revenge at last.

Powerful Ending: As Hamlet dies, he asks his loyal friend Horatio to tell his story to future generations. The play ends with nearly all the main characters dead, showing how the cycle of revenge ultimately destroys everyone involved.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

15

Smart Tools NEW

Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines

Mock Exam
Quiz
Flashcards
Essay

Similar content

Hamlet's Core Themes

Explore the intricate themes of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', including the tension between appearance and reality, the destructive nature of revenge, the inevitability of mortality, and the complexities of love and order. This analysis delves into Shakespeare's intentions and the profound implications of these themes on the characters and the narrative. Ideal for students seeking a deeper understanding of the play's critical interpretations.

English LanguageEnglish Language
12

Eulogy of Youth

Explore the poignant themes of nostalgia, family, and the idealization of motherhood in Carol Ann Duffy's 'Before You Were Mine'. This analysis includes a detailed examination of key quotes, language techniques, and the cultural context of the 1950s, providing insights into the mother-daughter relationship and the impact of societal expectations on personal identity. Ideal for students studying poetry and literary analysis.

English Lang.English Lang.
12

Moira's Resistance in Gilead

Explore the character of Moira in 'The Handmaid's Tale' and her role as a symbol of resilience against oppressive regimes. This essay delves into themes of feminism, mental health, and the impact of Gilead's dystopian society on women's spirits. Ideal for students studying dystopian literature and feminist themes. Achieved A* grade in mock test.

English LanguageEnglish Language
12

Failure and Regret in Duffy's Poetry

Explore the intricate themes of failure and regret in Carol Ann Duffy's poems 'The Biographer' and 'Mean Time'. This analysis delves into the contrasting portrayals of personal loss, emotional turmoil, and the philosophical reflections on relationships. Ideal for students studying poetry and literary themes, this summary highlights key elements such as structure, language, and emotional depth, providing a comprehensive understanding of Duffy's work.

English LanguageEnglish Language
13

A Streetcar Named Desire Themes

Explore the key themes and character dynamics in Tennessee Williams' 'A Streetcar Named Desire'. This summary covers the intricate relationships, class tensions, and psychological struggles depicted throughout the play, providing insights into Blanche's tragic journey and the impact of Stanley's dominance. Ideal for students studying literature and drama.

English Lang.English Lang.
12

Contrasting Views of Paris

Explore the contrasting perspectives of Paris in this A-grade essay comparing the persuasive Eurostar advert 'Stories are Waiting' with Ernest Hemingway's critical piece 'American Bohemians in Paris'. This analysis delves into themes of tourism, representation, and the use of humor in both texts, providing insights into how each text shapes the reader's perception of the city. Ideal for students studying English literature and language analysis.

English LanguageEnglish Language
12

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user