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WAEC - Literature In English (2007 - No. 45)

From the novel; Hamlet
From the novel; Hamlet
From the novel; Hamlet
Read the extract and answer the question

X : What is the matter?
Y : Save yourself, my lord:
The ocean, overpeering of his list,
Eats not the flats with more impetuous haste
Than young Laertes....
(Act 4, Scene five, lines 97-101)

The King had just requested that all the
doors be broken
doors be guarded
windows be locked
windows be opened

Explanation

This extract is from Hamlet by William Shakespeare (Act 4, Scene 5). In this scene, Laertes storms into the castle in a rage, seeking revenge for the death of his father, Polonius.

  • The phrase "Save yourself, my lord" suggests that there is a threat to the King (Claudius).

  • The metaphor "The ocean... Eats not the flats with more impetuous haste than young Laertes" compares Laertes' rage to a violent ocean wave, indicating that he is approaching forcefully.

  • The King, fearing for his safety, orders the doors to be guarded to prevent Laertes from reaching him.

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