A. Hamlet is included in the literary canon because it contains many themes that can be analyzed by students despite its limited amount of characters. For example, Hamlet and Laertes as foil characters can be used to discuss the consequences of indecision versus bravery. Ophelia’s mental breakdown can be analyzed and explain how the concept of madness contributes to a story. Seeing as Hamlet has been an applicable text for many AP Literature exams in the past several decades, it has rightfully earned its place in the literary canon.

B. The opening line of the play, “who’s there?”, is incredibly significant because it immediately sets a tone of suspense. This theme continues throughout the play as the audience watches the characters gain information and the plot furthers. Not only does it demonstrate that the characters themselves aren’t always knowledgeable to their situation, the audience also experiences the story as though they were a part of it.