Shakespeare in the Spring Podcast – May 2010 – Hamlet

Thank you all for an illuminating discussion of Hamlet tonight. I feel like we touched on a number of important issues: Hamlet’s “madness,” his problematic relationship with his mother, his equally problematic relationship with Ophelia, the “play within the play” and the role of theatricality in Shakespeare’s creation, the peculiar juxtaposition of lightheartedness and morbidity in the Gravedigger’s scene (5.1) and the play as a whole–and, of course, the many reasons why Hamlet continues to speak to us after so many years.

Tonight’s discussion really leaves me feeling humbled. And you know what? I think that’s the mark of a really great work of literature, and a really great play, and a really great group of readers.

We’re moving on to King Lear next month. If you missed tonight’s discussion, or if you want to review it, click on the following link to the podcast.

I’ll “see” you all next month. In the meantime, don’t hesitate to send your thoughts and questions to shakespeare@readingodyssey.org.

 

Rich

 

19. May 2010 by Arrian
Categories: Reader Call, Shakespeare | Tags: | 1 comment

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