Lecture on Shakespeare's Hamlet

Introduction to Sources of Hamlet

• Hamlet inspired by older literary and historical sources
• Origin traces back to a Norse legend from 1200 A.D.
• Kronberg Castle (Elsinore) in Denmark is the real-life counterpart

Plot Comparisons

• Original story: Ambitious man kills his brother, marries the widow, prince feigns madness to avenge
• Shakespeare adds philosophical depth reflecting Renaissance concerns

Renaissance Influence

• Renaissance: 15th-century cultural movement focusing on Greek and Latin texts revival
• Humanism: Celebrates human virtues, capacity for understanding, and reason
• Hamlet’s reasoning and philosophical reflections align with Renaissance humanism

Philosophical Characters in Hamlet

• Hamlet vs. Medieval characters (Laertes & Fortenbra)
• Renaissance humanists: Use reason over immediate action
• Hamlet’s delay in revenge due to excessive reasoning
• Influence of Michel de Montaigne on skepticism and fate

Political Context of Elizabethan England

• Uncertainty at Elizabeth I's reign's end; no heirs
• Reflection of England’s political future in Hamlet’s ending
• Popularity of Revenge Tragedy genre

Religious Themes

• Religious uncertainty a key theme due to Protestant-Catholic conflict
• Ambiguity of ghost’s nature: Protestant vs. Catholic interpretations
• Influence of Protestantism seen in Hamlet’s education

The Great Chain of Being

• Hierarchical structure: God at top, followed by monarchs, nobles, peasants
• Importance of maintaining order; chaos ensues if disrupted

Gender Roles in Elizabethan Society

• Patriarchal society: Men are dominant; women are submissive
• Male expectations: Masculinity, power, assertiveness
• Female expectations: Submission, chastity, marriage
• Ophelia’s manipulated state reflects women’s powerlessness

Conclusion

• Hamlet remains a reflection of its time
• Themes of political, philosophical, and religious uncertainty continue to resonate