Hamlet

1
Hamlet

• Structure can be viewed in 2 ways
• Dynamic structure the sequence of events which
  builds up in a cause and effect fashion, to
  create the plot and drive the play forward
• Symmetric structure parallels and
  cross-references, or repeated images, symbols and
  language that create a network of threads running
  through the play e.g. parallels of Hamlet
  Laertes as avenging sons and Hamlets repeated
  contemplation of death these form a web of
  patterning

2
Hamlet

• Identifying structure
• Dynamic structure identify the dynamic structure
  of the play remember to consider cause and
  effect so, would you begin with the death of
  old Hamlet?
• Symmetric structure
• imagery keep a plan of recurring imagery in the
  play, e.g. death note when it occurs and who
  uses it
• keep a plan of patterns in the play, e.g. Hamlet
  and Laertes/Hamlet and Fortinbras

3
Hamlet

• Character
• Remember that the characters are created by
  Shakespeare, that he uses 3 main techniques to do
  this
• Through their actions
• By what others say about them
• Through their own language

4
Hamlet

• Homework Task character analysis
• Focusing on Act 1, produce a character study of
  Hamlet as if in preparation for acting this part
  collect evidence from this act to support your
  view of the character and the way you might
  intend to play him on stage.

5
Hamlet

• Evidence
• Your evidence should consist of the following
• what Hamlet says about himself
• What others say about him
• What Hamlet does when speaking
• What he does when silent
• How his words match deeds/underlying motives
• How he is viewed by those around him

6
Hamlet

• Essay Title
• How does Shakespeare present the character of
  Hamlet during Act I?
• Consider
• How language, structure and form shape meaning
• How different interpretations might be made of
  this character

7
Hamlet

• Soliloquies and asides
• Remember to consider the dramatic use of these
  during the play the first soliloquy from Hamlet
  in Act I scene I is important.
• As you read the play, keep a list of the
  soliloquies in it and what they tell us about the
  characters speaking them

8
Hamlet

• Summary of character analysis hints
• Consider all possible interpretations there is
  more than one way to look at a character
• Assess the role or function the character
  performs in the play
• Examine in detail all the key speeches the
  character makes and the scenes in which he
  appears remember soliloquies and asides
• Gather a range of evidence from the play to
  support your view of the character