William Shakespeare's "Hamlet"

by Ann Thompson, Neil Taylor

A volume in the Writers and Their Work series, which draws upon recent thinking in English studies to introduce writers and their contexts. Each volume includes biographical material, an examination of recent criticism, a bibliography and a reappraisal of a major work by the writer.

Genres: Classics

Paperback

Published February 1, 1996

Reviews

[Shinldk69 · Rating 5 out of 5]

j'avais peur de le lire pcq c'est la pièce la plus longue de shakespeare mais c'est vraiment un banger

[adrianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

mai són suficients relectures de hamlet

[Michele]

It's Shakespeare. Not exactly a beach read but not horrible. I did use Spark Notes as an accompaniment so that I could get all the meaning
.

[Shahine Ardeshir]

I picked this book up hoping to gain some insight or perspective on a play I know and love dearly. Unfortunately, what I got instead was a lot of reminders of the plot and language used, as well as some history around possible sources. Nothing more. I didn't have a single 'aha' moment while reading Ann Thompson's critique.

That being said, it's no doubt an extremely diligently-researched and very articulate read. The language is impeccable, the knowledge of the play itself, its many performances and the historical context around it is unquestionably detailed. But for me, each section was missing a purpose, an agenda, a point (or several) that the writer would want to convey. And after a while, I tired of the intellectual jabber.

Not worth a read, in my opinion. Would have rather just read the original play again.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read Hamlet. Love Hamlet.