English Extension 1 Year 12 - Literary Mindscapes: Hamlet

Hamlet - British Library article

Hamlet shows Shakespeare intent on sabotaging the conventions of revenge tragedy. Kiernan Ryan, Emeritus Professor of English Literature at University of London, explains why.

Hamlet - article

This short article provides a synopsis and critical analysis of Hamlet.

Shakespeare Uncovered

David Tennant, who played the titular role in Royal Shakespeare Company's adaptation of Hamlet, meets other actors who have played the role, and discusses the meaning of the play and why it is considered the greatest play Shakespeare ever wrote.

Hamlet in a nutshell

The ghost of the King of Denmark tells his son Hamlet to avenge his murder by killing the new king, Hamlet's uncle. Hamlet feigns madness, contemplates life and death, and seeks revenge. His uncle, fearing for his life, also devises plots to kill Hamlet. The play ends with a duel, during which the King, Queen, Hamlet's opponent and Hamlet himself are all killed.

Podcast - Hamlet

Melvyn Bragg and guests discuss the inspiration for Shakespeare's Hamlet, the play's context and meaning, and why it has fascinated audiences from its first performance.
Duration 53 mins