Awash in murder, madness and revenge, Hamlet has spoken to the ‘beast’ in humankind for over four centuries. Written around the turn of the 17th century, Hamlet – in its fullest version – runs for over four hours. Even then, good productions of the sensational play can hold audiences in thrall. But, despite its preoccupation with violence and vengeance, Hamlet is also deeply philosophical, and bloodlust often takes a back seat to considerations of ethics and the moral course of action. It is the tension between these two aspects of humankind – part base, part noble – that has made this protagonist and the host of characters who come into his sphere so magnetic.

In this six-session series participants will engage in reading and discussing key scenes in Hamlet, including all seven of his soliloquies. As we undertake a close analysis of the play, we will examine the elements that make it a great revenge tragedy, but we will also consider ways in which Shakespeare makes it about so much more than revenge alone.

JOINING DETAILS:

• Six weekly two-hour meetings on Zoom led by Dr Julie Sutherland
• Wednesdays, 5 November -10 December, 5.00 -7.00 pm (UK)
• £180 for six two-hour meetings, to include opening notes and resources
• We strongly encourage participants to acquire the Arden Shakespeare Hamlet, revised edition (editors Ann Thompson & Neil Taylor). Variations between texts can be significant, so having the same version will facilitate reading and discussion.

An event hosted by the London Literary Salon, an international community of readers who spend time together virtually or in-person, engaging in enriching discussions about literature and ideas.