Name:Mehroz Khan

Reg ID:62103
Sap ID:61973

Book review assignment

1) Introduction to the author:

William Shakespeare, widely regarded as one of the greatest

playwrights and poets in English literature, wrote "Hamlet." Born in
April 1564 in Stratford-upon-Avon, he crafted numerous works that
have stood the test of time. "Hamlet," written around 1600, is a
tragedy exploring themes of revenge, madness, and existentialism,
showcasing Shakespeare's profound understanding of human nature.

2) Short summary of the text:

“Hamlet” is a tragedy by William Shakespeare that revolves
around Prince Hamlet seeking revenge for his father's murder. As
he grapples with morality, madness, and the complexities of
human nature, the play explores themes of power, betrayal, and
existential uncertainty. Hamlet's internal conflicts and the
intricate plot lead to a tragic conclusion, making it one of
Shakespeare's most renowned and studied works.
 3) Main themes/idea of the book:

“Hamlet” delves into various themes, including:

Revenge: The central theme revolves around Hamlet's quest for
revenge against his uncle, King Claudius, who murdered Hamlet's
father.
Madness: The play explores the thin line between feigned and
genuine madness, with Hamlet's erratic behaviour raising questions
about the nature of sanity.
Existentialism: Hamlet's soliloquies reflect existential concerns,
grappling with life's meaning, mortality, and the choices individuals
make.
Corruption and Deceit: The political intrigue within the Danish court
reveals themes of corruption, deception, and the moral decay that
can accompany unchecked ambition.
Family and Betrayal: Hamlet's strained relationship with his mother,
Queen Gertrude, and the betrayal he feels from those closest to him
underscore themes of family dynamics and loyalty.
The Supernatural: The appearance of the ghost of Hamlet's father
introduces a supernatural element, influencing the unfolding events
and emphasising the theme of the supernatural in human affairs.

These themes contribute to the complexity and depth of "Hamlet,"

making it a rich and enduring work.
 4) Analyses of the important characters:

Certainly let's briefly analyse some key characters in "Hamlet":

Hamlet: The protagonist is a complex character marked by indecision and

contemplation. His internal struggles, moral dilemmas, and existential
questioning make him one of Shakespeare's most intriguing characters.

Claudius: The antagonist and Hamlet's uncle, Claudius is a cunning and

ambitious ruler. His guilt over murdering his brother haunts him, adding
depth to his character.

Gertrude: Hamlet's mother, Gertrude, is enigmatic. Her hasty marriage to

Claudius after King Hamlet's death raises questions about her loyalty and
contributes to the play's themes of betrayal.

Ophelia: Hamlet's love interest, Ophelia, undergoes a tragic

transformation. Her descent into madness and eventual death highlight
the destructive consequences of the political and emotional turmoil
surrounding her.

Polonius: Ophelia's father and chief counsellor to Claudius, Polonius is a

well-intentioned but somewhat bumbling character. His meddling and
attempts at manipulation contribute to the unfolding tragedy.

Horatio: Hamlet's loyal friend, Horatio serves as a confidant and witness

to the events. His steadfastness contrasts with the other characters' flaws,
providing a sense of stability.
These characters, with their nuanced traits and interactions, contribute to
the intricate web of relationships and conflicts in "Hamlet," creating a
timeless exploration of human nature and the consequences of power
and betrayal.

5) Your favorite part in the book:

Hamlet is a multifaceted character whose complexities

contribute to the enduring appeal of the play. His introspective
nature, marked by profound soliloquies, showcases a deep
internal struggle. Hamlet's moral dilemmas, skepticism about
life's purpose, and his pursuit of justice through a complex
revenge plot make him a compelling and relatable figure. The
portrayal of Hamlet's emotional turmoil and philosophical
musings adds depth to his character, making him one of the most
iconic and enigmatic figures in literature.

6)Favorite quote:

One notable and widely recognised quote from

"Hamlet" is from Act 3, Scene 1, where Hamlet
contemplates the nature of existence:
"To be, or not to be, that is the question."
This quote is significant because it encapsulates
Hamlet's internal conflict and existential pondering.
The phrase reflects his contemplation on the
hardships of life and the unknown of death. Hamlet
grapples with the idea of enduring life's struggles or
choosing the uncertainty of what comes after death.
The eloquence and depth of this soliloquy make it
stand out, resonating with readers and audiences
alike for its timeless exploration of the human
condition.

7) If you got the chance to ask the author of this book one
question, what would it be?

If given the opportunity, I might ask William

Shakespeare about the inspiration behind the
character of Hamlet and the intricate psychological
depth infused into the play. Understanding the
creative process and influences that shaped such a
complex and enduring character would provide
valuable insights into the mind of one of the greatest
playwrights in literary history.

8) If you get the chance to change one thing in the book what
it would be?
While "Hamlet" is revered for its literary brilliance,
pondering changes can be subjective. However, if
given the chance, one might consider providing
more agency or depth to some of the female
characters, such as Ophelia and Gertrude. Enhancing
their perspectives and roles could offer a more
nuanced portrayal of their experiences within the
context of the play. Nonetheless, the play's existing
dynamics contribute to its intricate narrative and
thematic richness.