1. Hamlet by William Shakespeare

2. Background Information:
Tragedy written between
Remember what you already know about tragedies (Oedipus the King, Romeo & Juliet) – tragic hero, tragic flaw
Hamlet is (in many ways) a product of the Protestant Reformation, as well as the philosophy of humanism.
Hamlet’s constant anxiety about the difference between appearance and reality, as well as his concerns about and difficulties with religion (the sinfulness of suicide, the unfairness that killing a murderer while the murderer is praying would result in sending the murder to heaven) directly emerge from the breaks in religion and thought brought on by these two Renaissance issues. (see your notes on the Renaissance for more information)

3. Connections to the times…
This was a time for heroes. The ideal Elizabethan man was a talented courtier, adventurer, fencer, poet, and conversationalist. He was witty and eloquent gentleman who examined his own nature and the causes of his actions. (Renaissance man)
People were concerned over the order of things. They felt there was “a great chain of being.” This concept originated with Plato and expressed the idea that there is a proper order within all things. When everything was in its proper position, there was harmony. When the order was broken, everything was upset and everyone suffered.
People felt that their rulers were God’s agents. To kill a king was a heinous crime: the heavens showed ominous signs when such an evil was present.

4. Themes in Hamlet Action and Inaction Appearance vs. Reality
The Role of Women
Religion, Honor, and Revenge
Poison, Corruption, Death
As you read, be on the lookout for these themes. Note which characters are involved in these issues and how Shakespeare connects these to the plot.

5. Reading tips…
Visit (linked to my website, of course!) I will send this link to you via edmodo as well.
Read aloud! You may feel silly, but you’d be surprised at how easily you will fall into a verbal flow that will help you identify mood and intent based on which words are being stressed.
Keep a character list and answer all discussion/study guide questions.