This 7-page (1538 words ) student Handout will help any student and/or teacher of the play get started in thinking about themes, characters and examination questions. Written by an Examiner and teacher of 30-years standing.

The Guide is structured as follows:

• Historical Context: Written during the Elizabethan era, “Hamlet” reflects the cultural and political changes of the time, including the Renaissance and the rise of humanism.
• Shakespeare’s Life and Works: Understanding Shakespeare’s life and other works can provide valuable insights into “Hamlet,” one of his most complex plays.
• Character Analysis: The guide examines key characters like Hamlet, Claudius, Gertrude, Ophelia, Polonius, Laertes, Horatio, and King Hamlet’s ghost, highlighting their complexities and roles in the narrative.
• Language and Style: Shakespeare’s use of soliloquies, wordplay, and vivid imagery enhances the play’s emotional and intellectual impact.
• Study Strategies: Effective study strategies include close reading, performance analysis, discussion, and consulting secondary sources to deepen understanding.

Look out for my other resources on Hamlet as well.