Introduction to Shakespeare's Hamlet Flashcards
What is a Shakespearean Tragedy?
It is a five-act play ending with the death of the Major Character.
What is the Tragic Hero?
Usually a person held in high regard (Prince in the case of Hamlet).
Often faces a a dramatic/unexpected change of fortune (death of his father).
Since he is powerful, the fate of the nation depends on him (war from norway).
Often has a negative character trait (indecision in the case of Hamlet).
What is a revenge play?
A revenge play is a sub-genre of a tragedy popular in Elizabethean times.
Included: a hero who must avenge an evil deed (The murder of Hamlet’s father)
Insanity or faked insanity (Hamlet faked madness).
A few sub-plots (the situation between norway).
The violent death of the hero (Hamlet gets killed off at the end).
What are the two traditions that were influential in Shakespeare’ day?
Classical tradition: Emphasized honour and revenge.
Religious Tradition: Emphasize love, humility and reliance on God. “Turn the other cheek”.
