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'Hamlet', 2006.
A look at the female characters in Lawrence Olivier's 1948 production and Kenneth Branagh's 1996 film version of 'Hamlet'.
1,044 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews and discusses the contrast of the female characters in "Hamlet", as portrayed in two 20th century film productions: Lawrence Olivier's 1948 production and Kenneth Branagh's 1996 version.
From the Paper
"Shortly after this sequence, Hamlet bursts into his first soliloquy, and through this "textual transposition," placing the Ophelia scene immediately after the first soliloquy...a direct link is created between Hamlet's sense of sexual betrayal in Gertrude's "dexterous posting" between "incestuous sheets" with his uncle Claudius and Ophelia's refusal of him as a chaste or sexual lover. (Dawson 178; "Hamlet" I.2) The former seems likely, given that the actress who plays Ophelia seems so innocent, blond and docile to her father and brother's wishes, in contrast to the young, sensual brunette Gertrude. Oliver's Gertrude hardly seems old enough to have a mature son, although she also seems anything but innocent in the caressing way she behaves towards Oliver, even at the outset of the film."
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Hamlet's Delay, 2007.
This paper looks at reasons for Hamlet's delay in killing Claudius.
1,072 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
The paper relates that although critics and scholars have offered many different reasons for Hamlet's delay in avenging the death of Denmark's King, none of these possible causes have received unanimous acceptance. The paper then examines the various plausible explanations for Hamlet's delay in killing Claudius. The paper also explains that there is some degree of certainty that Hamlet's obvious madness, whether it was feigned or real, had a great deal of influence on his actions.
From the Paper
"It has also been said that Hamlet's delay was caused by doubt about Claudius's action or the motive of the ghost. It is seen that Hamlet does suspect the motives of the ghost when he wonders if it could be a devil trying to lure him to commit the hideous crime. But this doubt is soon settled during the play scene and Hamlet is still unsure of his reaction and leaves for England. Morality is also out of question as the possible cause because Hamlet feels no remorse or burden on his conscience when Rosencrantz and Guildenstern die. (V.ii.58) This shows that he fully understood the difference between killing an innocent man and killing an offender."
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Horatio and Hamlet, 2007.
An analysis of the genuine friendship between Horatio and Hamletin William Shakespeare's famous play, "Hamlet".
1,636 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
The paper portrays how the relationship between Horatio and Hamlet, in Shakespeare's play, Hamlet", is based on extraordinary trust and confidence. The paper illustrates how Horatio is genuinely interested in Hamlet's welfare and Hamlet recognizes this, thus even in the midst of his lunatic fits, Hamlet doesn't fail to praise Horatio for his selfless devotion. The paper notes that a striking feature of their relationship is the secrecy and privacy of information that Hamlet demands and Horatio readily respects. The paper also shows how Horatio's concern is genuine but his protection style is passive which shows maturity and respect.
From the Paper
"It is in the very beginning of the play, Act I, Scene II, that we realize what this relationship means as the strength of it becomes evident when Horatio encounters the apparition of Hamlet's father and feels that Hamlet must be told. Even though Horatio understands that this information could be both painful and dangerous for the very fragile Hamlet, still he wants him to know since the information could be of significance. Horatio fully recognizes the repercussions of communicating this information since he has seen such visions leading to murder and conflicts."
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The Tragedy of Hamlet, 2003.
A review of 'Hamlet' by William Shakespeare.
818 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at William Shakespeare's most famous play, 'Hamlet'. According to the paper, at face value the plot appears to be relatively simple. The paper goes on to explain, however, that, upon taking a closer look, one realizes that the play has many psychological and metaphysical implications: it is, in fact a meditation on the nature of man, as well as a meditation on life in general.
From the Paper
"At both the psychological and philosophical levels of the play, the Shakespearian text reveals a very important theme- that of the contrast between appearance and reality. The structure of the play and its main events unfold this contrast: the double crime is called a "foul play" by Hamlet upon his hearing from Horatio about the apparition of the ghost of his father. This term intimates that the events as apparent in the play have a hidden meaning. Also, play becomes again important in what was called the "play within play" scene, where it is Hamlet's turn to play and stage a tragedy for Claudius with the aid of some actors, in which he inserts a few lines that speak of his father's murder. Thus, the "play" or the act of playing at reality becomes a central theme of Hamlet. "
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Shakespeare's "Hamlet", 2006.
This paper identifies Renaissance ideals in Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
1,445 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the Renaissance concept and consideration of death are prominent throughout Shakespeare's "Hamlet". The author points out that, in Shakespeare's famous soliloquy, Hamlet hesitates in his consideration of suicide not because of an absolute Christian belief in divine retribution but because he is afraid of an afterlife of which he is unsure. The paper relates that the Renaissance ideas around decay of the body and mortality as the great leveler are present in "Hamlet" on several occasions such as after killing Polonius and disposing of the remains. The paper includes quotations from the play.
From the Paper
"The Renaissance is considered a period of rebirth for culture and learning. It is traditionally identified at the period of European history that closes the Middle Ages, spanning from the 14th to the mid-17th centuries. Considered the beginning of the modern world, the Renaissance period experienced a rebirth of ancient Greek philosophies, and a renewed interest in classical art forms and sensitivities. Many artists began to explore and expand the work done in the classical age, concentrating on the human form and the depiction of ancient mythologies."
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"Hamlet" and the Renaissance, 2006.
A review of the representation of Renaissance ideals in William Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
1,453 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare and looks at how he uses his work to display Renaissance thought and concerns. It examines how, through Hamlet's contemplation of death, his character is solidly connected to the ideals of the Renaissance.
From the Paper
"One such archaic belief that was left behind in the previous centuries was the sense that tragedies, both personal and widespread, were great punishments for sins. In particular, a tragic and untimely death was often considered some kind of spiritual retribution passed down to the individual from God himself. This certainly made sense since the medical knowledge of the day could not explain the horrible plagues that wiped out entire populations, or other such tragic events. Often what is not understood is highly feared and attributed to a greater power, and so an early death or any death preceded by an agonizing illness was considered a terrible event since they were a clear indication of God's displeasure. These conceptions were replaced in the Renaissance, especially by the time Shakespeare was writing Hamlet."
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"The Merchant of Venice", 2007.
An analysis of the money-conscious attitudes of the various characters in William Shakespeare's play, "The Merchant of Venice."
750 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses whether Shylock the Jew is the most money-hungry character in William Shakespeare's play, "The Merchant of Venice." The paper analyzes the plot and some of the scenes in the play in order to compare the different character's views on money. The paper concludes that it is the Christian Bassanio who is the most money-conscious of all of the persons in the play and explains why this is so.
From the Paper
"It is the Christian Bassanio, ironically, who is the most money-conscious of all of the persons in the play. Bassanio chooses lead, when asked to select from the three caskets that Portia offers to test her suitors. She is happy that he wins, and the lead is supposed to be the correct choice, for the person who chooses lead is supposed to be a man who has hazarded all he has, to win Portia. But in truth, Bassanio has hazarded nothing and desires Portia's gold. It is Antonio who has taken the risk in lending money for his friend. Now that Shylock is angered because of the loss of his daughter, he resolves to call upon the bond Antonio made in jest, a pound of flesh. The jest-like nature of the false bond was reflected when Antonio said that: "The Hebrew will turn Christian: he grows kind." (I.2) In other words, Shylock asked for no interest or money upon the loan in an effort to cement his relationship with Antonio (another example of how Shylock does not always put money before relationships). However, Shylock's kindness turns to cruelty, because a Christian has sundered his relationship with his beloved daughter--a Christian, incidentally, in need of money that willingly spends the ducats stolen by his stolen bride from Shylock's coffers."
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'Richard III', 2006.
A review of 'Richard III' by William Shakespeare.
1,219 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at William Shakespeare's play 'Richard III' and two movie versions based on this play. According to the paper, 'Richard III' is both a tragedy and a historical account of the short career of the last medieval English king. The paper discusses how Shakespeare's 'Richard III' depicts Richard and his "reign of terror" both unflatteringly and beyond historical accuracy.
From the Paper
" In the movie version, "Looking for Richard," Al Pacino creates, directs and stars as Richard III's obsession for power, lust and betrayal through the streets of New York to the birthplace of Shakespeare to an emotionally charged production of Richard III (Richard III Society 1996) It is a presentation of Shakespeare with an untraditional format more accessible to the modern audience and with which this modern audience can relate better. The cast includes Estelle Parsons as Queen Margaret, Alec Baldwin as Clarence, Kevin Spacey as Buckingham, Winona Ryder as Lady Anne and Aidan Quinn as Richmond. Al Pacino also puts in the enthusiasm and help of Sir John Gielgud, Sir Derek Jacobi, Kenneth Branagh, Vanessa Redgrave, James Earl Jones and Kevin Kline in an attempt at making everyone enjoy Shakespeare and his tales truly timeless in exploring human nature. This version is different from the first two interpretations in that Al Pacino and his actors needed to break down the barriers, which render Shakespeare's history complicated and intimidating. Al Pacino allows his viewer to go behind the scenes and witness the actual process of acting. The heavier aspects of the play are made mild by informal shots of actors dealing with their roles in either a comic or heated forum. Al Pacino's methods of analysis are insightful, amusing and engrossing. He transcends the barrier between actors and their audience as he stands in London's legendary Globe Theater and the halls of New York City's Cloisters Museum (Richard III Society)."
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Macbeth and Materialism, 2007.
This paper examines the concept of materialism in works of art, concentrating on William Shakespeare's 'Macbeth'.
1,297 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 43.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer explains that in Shakespeare's world, extreme wealth and comfort were enjoyed at their ultimate peak generally only by royalty. The writer relates that people today, like Macbeth in Shakespeare's play, are realizing that material wealth is, after all, not the ultimate pathway towards true happiness. The writer discusses that Macbeth wants the power of being king so badly that he would do anything to fulfill the prophesy, even if it means sinking to levels that are out of his character. The writer concludes that while spirituality takes a different form in the modern-day world than in Shakespeare's time, there is still the separation of pure materialism from the higher, inherently human values.
From the Paper
"True to the prophesy of the above words, Macbeth destroys both his security and power by succumbing to the illusion of security. The appearance of extreme wealth and power blinds him to the true danger around him and to the false promises of the witches. In this way the play acts as a warning for the audience: wealth and power are likely to bring more grief and danger than they are worth. They also destroy any meaningful connection that might exist between the human being and the divine."
"In modern-day works of art, the same warning is issued, although in a more light-hearted, redeeming fashion. Furthermore, material wealth and the divine come closer to each other than in Shakespeare's play, suggesting a new paradigm of wealth and its relationship to divinity. Aristotle's assertion in terms of modern humankind may therefore hold less truth than may have been the case for the average Shakespearean audience."
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Hamlet, 2007.
This paper critically analyzes "Hamlet," the greatest tragedy of Shakespeare.
1,363 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This critical analysis focuses on Act V of the Shakespearean play "Hamlet". The paper describes the scene of the gravediggers in the the church graveyard and the ensuing funeral of Ophelia. The paper shows how, after losing all those he loves so dearly, Hamlet undergoes a personal transformation. The paper concludes that, however heroic Hamlet was, the end result was still one of tragedy.
Outline:
Objective
Introduction
Hamlet: Scene V Act 1
The Funeral Procession
Act V Continues
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Hamlet was written somewhere around the year of 1600 and was one of Shakespeare's most mature and talented works. Hamlet is believed by many to be the greatest tragedy of Shakespeare. This work of Shakespeare is believed to be a popular play that was remade and was based on historical fiction. The historical Hamlet was son of a Danish "King of the Jutes" who lived during the period known as the dark ages. In the historical tale the murder of one brother by another brother took place and was not actually a murder but was a coup. In superstition of that time, the individual who murdered someone who was insane came under a risk of becoming insane themselves."
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"Canterbury Tales" and Shakespeare's Love Sonnets, 2007.
This paper gives a comparative analysis of Geoffrey Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" and William Shakespeare's love sonnets.
1,320 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 0 sources, $ 44.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the theme of idealism as reflected in the works of Chaucer and Shakespeare. In particular, the paper examines Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" and Shakespeare's Sonnets 18, 116 and 130. The discussion and analysis demonstrates how both authors' works illustrate the prevalence of their ideals: for Chaucer, his ideals on what religion and expression of faith should be, and for Shakespeare, how love is and should be.
From the Paper
"Influenced by the ideology of idealism during his time, Chaucer reflected his ideals of Christianity and its followers through The Pardoner's Tale of "The Canterbury Tales." Like the other tales in "Canterbury," the Pardoner's tale is a satire meant to criticize the society that Chaucer lived in during his period. While in some of the tales, Chaucer did not explicitly expressed his disagreement with and criticism of the rampant corruption and hypocrisy within the Church and among its elements (the clergy and the lay), in the Pardoner's tale, these issues were addressed and made explicit through the persona of the Pardoner."
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Blame in "Othello", 2007.
This paper focuses on Desdemona's role in the tragic events that occur in Shakespeare's "Othello."
1,039 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
The paper takes a close look at Desdemona's character in Shakespeare's "Othello," showing that she is partially responsible for the tragic events that occur in the play. The author challenges the accepted view that Othello lead to his own downfall. The paper describes Desdemona as a naive victim and cites this naivete as preventing her from standing up to Othello, and leading to the plays tragic outcome.
From the Paper
"Desdemona's naivete is first seen when she defends Othello to her father. She describes her love for Othello saying, "I saw Othello's visage in his mind, / And to his honour and his valiant parts / Did I my soul and fortunes consecrate" (I,iii). This statement is made as part of a romantic speech where Desdemona describes the greatness of Othello. This shows a level of naivete because Desdemona is only able to see the goodness in Othello. A good comparison can be made by comparing the Duke of Venice's view of Othello. He too, shows that he has a lot of respect for Othello and refers to him as valiant. This respect is based on Othello as a soldier and he is considered brave and valiant. However, this respect does not extend to seeing Othello as a good husband. This is why the Duke of Venice is not easily convinced that Othello and Desdemona's relationship is acceptable. This shows that the Duke of Venice does respect Othello but also sees him realistically and does not consider him perfect. In contrast, Desdemona speaks of Othello as if he is perfect. She can only see the goodness in Othello and is not able to see his faults."
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William Shakespeare, 2007.
A look at the life and times of William Shakespeare.
2,014 words (approx. 8.1 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how William Shakespeare is one of the most famous playwrights of English literature today. He is still one of the majestic emblems of the British people and one of the great representatives of his time. The paper explores his limited biography and explains that little is known for certain about his life. The paper illustrates how Shakespeare experienced one of the most turbulent periods in history and describes in detail the era in which he lived. The paper looks at "Othello", one of Shakespeare's most acclaimed works.
From the Paper
"Despite rigorous research made to complete Shakespeare's biography, little is known for certain about his life. He was born at Stratford-upon- Avon in April 1564. His family was rather prosperous and highly regarded in town. However, by 1582, he had married Ann Hathaway, a woman eight years older than him; a fact that especially at that time stirred some controversy, as it was considered to be against the moral values of the era. Nonetheless, they had three children. The records show scarce evidence of his existence until his arrival in London in 1585. "There is no tradition, not universally accepted, that he fled From Stratford because he was in trouble for deed stealing, and had fallen foul of Sir Thomas Lucy, the local magnate; another that he was for some time a school master." (Shakespeare, 7)"
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Tragic Hero, 2007.
This paper analyzes Shakespeare's character of Othello as a tragic hero.
1,812 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer presents a detailed examination of the Shakespearean character Othello as a tragic hero. The writer discusses the character Othello, as held against the standards of philosopher Aristotle and compared to the character of Creon in Sophocles. The writer explores the six attributes that Aristotle believed were needed to become a tragic hero and argues that Othello fits this description more completely and convincingly than Creon did. The writer concludes that when it comes to Aristotle's definition of a tragic hero Othello clearly outpaces Creon in all six categories of definition.
Outline:
Introduction
Comparing the Characters to the Six Elements
Conclusion
From the Paper
"According to Aristotle there are six significant elements to being labeled a tragic hero. They include nobility and greatness, imperfection, faults or a downfall, punishment exceeding a crime, in other words the misfortune of the hero is not completely deserved by the hero, and there must be a discovery of self or something learned by the hero during the tragedy itself. The final criterion is that the audience is not left feeling a total sense of loss or sadness. When one holds Creon from Sophocles and Othello, from the play Othello against each other one can easily see that Othello is the more convincing tragic hero of the two."
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Supernatural in Literature, 2007.
An analysis of the depiction of the supernatural through some of William Shakespeare's works.
1,266 words (approx. 5.1 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the depiction of the supernatural in literature. It specifically looks at the ways that the supernatural is portrayed in William Shakespeare's plays and focuses on the witches in "Macbeth" and the fantasy and illusion of "A Midsummer Night's Dream." The paper concludes by mentioning other works that have depicted the supernatural, such as Rudolfo Anaya's novel, "Bless me, Ultima."
From the Paper
"There are no significant actual dreams in the play but rather some dreamlike situations that add to the magical quality of the story. For example, after Titania, the fairy queen whom Oberon wanted to fall in love with someone other than the little boy of her friend's, wakes up from her sleep with love potion on her eyes and under the spell of that charm, immediately falls in love with a clownish figure Bottom. This may appear to be a very hilarious situation to the readers but it is situations like these that were responsible for bringing about a significant change in the course of the play. During that period when she was under the influence of the charm, she dotes on the clown but as soon as the spell ends, she starts loathing the very same person. Whatever has taken place during the spell was a beautiful dream to Bottom who lacked the intelligence to fathom what had happened to him. (IV, i., ll.205-214) Another very important role of dreams can be understood by the speech of Puck in the last Act when he offers an explanation for dreamlike situations to other characters. He wants them to think of their past as nothing but a dream because this explanation could answer whatever questions they had in mind. (ACT V)"
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