Since literary works such as Shakespearean works hold the attention of many scholars, it is understandable that there are numerous essays, books, etc. written about Shakespeare’s work. These all serve as interesting and informative readings to follow, and are indeed worth following up in the form of an annotated bibliography.
The following is an annotated bibliography that
demonstrates the extent of the interest in a particular
work of Shakespeare, Hamlet. Perhaps Hamlet is
one the most gripping of Shakespeare’s works,
as it deals wit the threshold of sanity and insanity.
Considering the times in which this play was written,
it is considered to be a magnificently written
play that touches family-life, parenthood, political
control, deceit, etc.
Each of the following bibliographic entries concerns itself with various aspects of this play, Hamlet, and describes it with varying intensities. In addition to this, each bibliographic entry is a description of the material itself as well as a critical look at it.
- Erskine, John. The character of Hamlet Hankins, Publisher: Freeport, N.Y., Books for Libraries Press 1971.
This work describes who Hamlet really is. It takes an insight of his personal struggles as a son, and as future kind of Denmark. It also observes and describes Hamlet’s character critically, observing his flaws as well as his strengths.
- Hamlet versus Lear: cultural politics and Shakespeare's art R. A. Foakes Publisher: Cambridge, [ England]: Cambridge University Press, 1993.
This is an interesting comparison between two of Shakespeare’s well known characters. Since both characters were ones that had to take back what was stolen from them and what was rightfully theirs, they are two characters that are brilliantly compared. In each character’s case, their weaknesses and strengths are exposed.
- Aasand, Hardin L. ed. Stage directions in Hamlet: new essays and new directions Publisher: Madison: Fairleigh Dickinson University Press; 2003.
This publication on Hamlet is one that describes and analyzes the manner in which stage set up is vital to this character. It provides insight to the secrets of cinema during the time Hamlet was made. Apparently, this is a publication that can help ameliorating Hamlet’s character on stage.
- Simons, Charlie B. ed. The legend of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, as found in the works of Saxo Grammaticus and other writers of the twelfth century Chicago, C. H. Kerr, 1887 Publisher: New York, AMS Press, 1972.
This publication is one that exposes alternative records of Hamlet as a character. It is really no different to any other description of Hamlet, except for minor alterations in the character’s role.
- Bloom, Edward E., ed. Shakespeare, 1564-1964: A Collection of Modern Essays By Various Hands.
This is a collection of essays on Shakespearean
characters that have been well compiled. Among
these are characters such as Hamlet, which have
been elaborated upon, in order to expose the essence
of each important trait. It is these traits that
are analyzed and singled out in order to define
each character.
- Eastman, Arthur. A Short History of Shakespearean Criticism.
This publication is one that reflects its title. It describes Shakespearean works from Ben Johnson till around 1960, covering general aspects of major plays such as Hamlet.
- Mangan, Michael. A Preface to Shakespeare's Tragedies. 1992.
This publication is an adequate introduction to tragedies of Shakespeare. Covered in this publication is Hamlet. In its description of the play and the main character, major issues are also covered that pertain to the unusual case of Hamlet’s condition.
- Holderness, Graham. Shakespeare: The Histories. 2000.
In this publication, the author studies major plays of Shakespeare in chronological order. This helps to set in place hamlet’s uniqueness. Particular major issues of those times are also emphasized upon as well, such as the 1590's context and the contrast between gender roles.
- Kozintsev, Grigori. Shakespeare, Time and Conscience. Trans. Joyce Vining. New York: Hill and Wang, 1966. On his film version.
This publication enlightens one on the character in the light of its existence. However, it also appeals to people today, regarding their personal lives and their possessions that they have every right to maintain control of. This publication approaches issues with this character with clarity and aids adequate understanding of Hamlet and other characters as well.
- Rosenberg, Marvin. The Masks of Hamlet. Newark: University of Delaware Press, 1992.
This character exposes who hamlet is. It reveals the different sides of Hamlet, such his role of being a son, as well as potential leader of his country. In exposing these sides of Hamlet, a clearer picture of this character is painted and aids better understanding of the mind with which Shakespeare created him.
- Shakespear, William. The Riverside Shakespeare. 2nd ed. Gen. ed. G. Blakemore Evans. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1997.
This publication is also one that allows insight to the manner in which Hamlet may be enhanced on stage. In addition to this, this publication offers linguistic descriptions as well as analysis of the play. This publication offers some of the best insight of the play as well as the pivotal character. |