Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Hamlet by William Shakespeare
Published: 1603
Country: United Kingdom
Publisher: Nicholas Ling, First Folio
The longest Shakespeare play, probably the most discussed, arguably the most puzzling, and containing the role that all young actors regard as their greatest test; Hamlet continues to fascinate audiences 400 years after its composition. There are over 30 film variations, which includes Disney's The Lion King, each version suggests different solutions to the many problems of the play.
Containing the most famous speech in the English language – certainly the most famous line – it is typical of the enigma of Hamlet that there is still controversy over where “To be or not to be” should actually appear in the play!
The bloody tale of Dark Age retribution, which was Shakespeare’s source, becomes a revenge tragedy in which the act of revenge is endlessly deferred, a ghost story whose “apparition” [according to Dr Johnson] “left the regions of the dead to little purpose”, a story with a hero whose “infinite faculties” do not prevent him destroying his own family and that of his lover. “What a piece of work is a man!” Hamlet exclaims and it is the debate about what kind of humanity can prevail in a dangerous and insecure world that continues to give the play contemporary resonance.
Learn more about Hamlet...
- ACTS - Get a deeper understanding of the plot of Hamlet by reading out act-by-act analysis and see what other students have written about the play.
- CHARACTERS - Discover more about the main characters in Hamlet and see a selection of related essays.
- THEMES - Revenge and kingship - understand more about the themes Shakespeare employs in Hamlet.
More essays on Hamlet
Look further than just 'to be or not to be' and gain tips for essays and coursework with our Hamlet study guide at Marked by Teachers.
How do Hamlet's Soliloquies reveal his Changing thoughts and Moods throughout the play?
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What is the importance of the Soliloquies in Hamlet? Do they show any development of his character?
AS Hamlet Coursework Essay Q. What is the importance of the Soliloquies in Hamlet? Do they show any development of his character? A soliloquy is a dramatic speech...
How does Shakespeare present the character of Hamlet?
How Does Shakespeare Present The Character Of Hamlet? The mastery of Shakespeare in depicting his characters is shown in a way that they seem to dominate...
Personal Responce to Hamlet
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Why does Hamlet still matter?
Why does Hamlet still matter? The play Hamlet composed by William Shakespeare approximately 400 years ago, remains...
How does Shakespeare present ideas of disorder, corruption and decay in Act 1 of Hamlet?
How does Shakespeare present ideas of disorder, corruption and decay in Act 1 of Hamlet? Hamlet was believed to have been written between 1599 and 1601 by...