"Hamlet" and "Henry IV"

Paper Summary:

In considering Shakespeare's plays, it can often be seen that they are written to specific formulas. This is most clearly seen in the tragic plays, where the action of the plays is based on the fatal flaw of a character, leading to the tragic ending. The paper discusses that, while these similarities are obvious ones, there are also less obvious similarities. One of these similarities occurs in the opening scenes of the plays, where Shakespeare often introduces the characters and the events in similar ways. These similarities are discussed by focusing on two plays, "Hamlet" and "Henry IV." For both plays, the two opening acts are described, followed by a discussion of the similarities and the differences.

From the Paper:

"Act I, Scene I of Hamlet opens with the changing of the castle guards, where the guards see the ghost of the former king. An air of tension is created as Horatio states that the appearance of the ghost suggests "some strange eruption to our state" (I,i 69). The discussion then also introduces the recent events for the state including the death of the previous king, and the appointment of the new king. With this information, the changing of the guard as the opening is given new relevance, since the change of kings also represents a changing of the guard. These elements combine to create a sense of unease. At this point, it is not known what the exact problem is with Denmark, but there is a sense that something is wrong."

More papers on "Hamlet" and "Henry IV":

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• Analytical Essay # 61041 : "Henry IV"

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