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"Hamlet", 2006.
A review of William Shakespeare's "Hamlet", a tragic play that explores human emotions.
1,206 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at the tragic play "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare. In "Hamlet", Shakespeare explores various human emotions, particularly the need for revenge. This paper takes a look at these emotions as well as the righteous value that proved to be to Hamlet's downfall.
From the Paper
"First, Hamlet is a thinker. He has the mind of a great man and a sense of the vastness of the universe and eternity. He constantly questions himself about the meaning of life. "What is this quintessence of dust?" he asks. Many of his questions are not answerable to this day. He wonders about profound issues that perhaps only God understands. He is certainly aware of "the great question of being" and of what he does not know. "There are more things in heaven and earth...than are dreamt of in our philosophy." He senses the mental nature of existence and makes profound statements, such as, "There is nothing either good nor bad, but thinking makes it so." Hamlet is also a good judge of honesty and can tell when others are not being completely honest with him. For example, when his old friends Gildenstern and Rosenkranz are asked by the queen and Claudius to come and visit him, he knows they are lying about their reason for visiting."
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Shakespeare's Women, 2006.
Discusses the roles of Cleopatra and Desdemona in plays by William Shakespeare.
1,245 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
There is a virtual myriad of essays and criticisms concerning the women characters in William Shakespeare's plays. This paper focuses mainly on the role of two of these women - Desdemona from "Othello" and Cleopatra from "Antony and Cleopatra". It also briefly discusses other characters such as Calpurnia and Portia. The paper concludes that of all his female characters, Shakespeare's Cleopatra is certainly at the top of the list in qualities of intelligence, power, seductiveness, aggression and assertiveness.
From the Paper
"Desdemona in "Othello," appears on the surface as a typical weak female who is totally submissive to her husband, however she is not truly typically meek. She is actually quite broad minded and assertive, and seems to have no problem in standing up to Othello's jealousy or using her feminine wiles to persuade her husband to forgive Cassio. When Othello strikes her, shouting, "Devil," Desdemona responds to him, saying, "I have not deserved this" (Othello pp)."
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"A Midsummer Night's Dream", 2006.
This paper discusses and analyzes the play "A Midsummer Night's Dream" by William Shakespeare.
1,050 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
The writer of this article studies various acts of Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream". The paper provides a view of one of Shakespeare's most famous and most loved works. In particular, the paper looks at how an all-male cast affects three pivotal scenes and explains how this staging tactic demands that audiences respond in a particular way. The writer explains that using only men in all the roles would have been common in Shakespeare's time, but today, it seems to take away from the impact and humor of the play.
From the Paper
"Clearly, the implications and consequences of the play are different when all the cast members are one gender. Some of the passion goes out of the play, and some of the scenes may even seem ridiculous or far-fetched. Personally, the play is funny and emotional, and some of that might just seem like farce to the audience when the cast was all male. It might seem more like "The Bird Cage" or other gay films. Giving hints of femaleness may work with some of the cast, but in other scenes, giving hints may simply take away the dramatic effect and lessen the impact of the play. The femaleness of the female characters is very important to the play, but it can be overcome with actors who believe in what they are doing and deliver their lines with conviction. Tongue-in-cheek lines will ruin the entire meaning and impact of the play."
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Grief in "Hamlet", 2006.
This paper analyzes the devastating effects of grief in William Shakespeare's classic play "Hamlet."
756 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 26.95
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Abstract
The writer of this paper contends and proves the manner in which grief can and does destroy the life of Hamlet. This paper delves into Hamlet's, depression, self-doubt, insanity and thoughts of suicide which is brought on by his father's death. This paper cites relevant sections of the play which specifically point to Hamlet's self inflicted grief.
From the Paper
"The next phase of grief leads to self-doubt, which is emphasized by the appearance of the ghost. At first, Hamlet tires to deny the ghost and what it means, calling it a "goblin damned". Almost immediately after that, he calls the ghost, "King, father, Royal Dane". Here we see the beginning of Hamlet's wavering and doubt. Even though he does not know what or who the ghost is, he demands that it answer him so that he might "not burst in ignorance". When Hamlet cannot kill Claudius, he experiences even more self doubt, saying that he is a "dull and muddy-mettled rascal . . . unpregnant of my cause,/And I can say nothing". These scenes allow us to see how Hamlet's grief is beginning to effect his reasoning. Grief also leads Hamlet to thoughts of suicide. One of his most famous soliloquies contemplates "To be, or not to be."
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Shakespeare, 2006.
A discussion on the true identity of William Shakespeare.
1,853 words (approx. 7.4 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 59.95
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Abstract
This paper introduces the notion that the famous William Shakespeare was writing under a pseudonym. The paper explores how Shakespeare may have been Edward De Vere, Francis Bacon or Christopher Marlowe. It offers clues, insight and reasoning for each alleged identity.
From the Paper
"The question is an astounding one and there are many theories as to why De Vere would not write under his own name. Gibson contends, "It would have been unseemly, his advocates point out, for a courtier to attach his name to public wares. And De Vere was a truly uncommon nobleman: he was the hereditary Lord Great Chamberlain and a sometime favorite of Elizabeth I's" (Gibson). According to Gibson, the man had his reasons and they were clearly connected with his nobility. Despite this fact, Gibson and others are convinced that De Vere did "leave clues" (Gibson). For example, his copy of the Geneva Bible has been discovered in the Folger Shakespeare Library in Washington and "to the delight of advocates, words are underlined that reappear in the masterpieces" (Gibson). Among these little treasures are "I am that I am" from the book of Exodus. This passage is found in a letter that De Vere "wrote to his father-in-law in 1584 but also in 'Sonnet 121.'" Gibson also states that among De Vere's clues in the Bible are the words "weaver's beam" from the book of II Samuel, which appear in The Merry Wives of Windsor as well as one of Falstaff speeches. According to Gibson, other examples of De Vere's clues exist as well."
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Shakespeare's Kings, 2006.
A comparison between William Shakespeare's characters of Richard II and King Henry IV.
1,600 words (approx. 6.4 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 52.95
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Abstract
This paper examines two of Shakespeare's historical kings: Richard II and King Henry IV. The paper argues that Richard II was a king by divine right, whereas Henry IV was a Machiavellian king. The paper first assesses Richard's rule: he was not loved by his people or by those who served him; he did not earn his kingship, did not respect it and did not do anything in order to keep it. The paper contrasts this to King Henry IV, who was completely aware of his kingship and what he had to do to keep it; he acted aggressive, decisive and proactive. The paper then demonstrates how the characterization of these two kings demonstrates Shakespeare's unique ability to capture the diversity of humanity and create believable characters. The paper concludes that Shakespeare proves that kings are just like the rest of us--some of them capable and some of them negligent beyond belief. The paper quotes from both plays in order to supports its theses.
From the Paper
"Richard II was a king by the divine right of kings and we only need to look at his actions to determine this fact. He would have never earned his kingship had it not been something that was given to him by right of his birth. In short, Richard is a bad king with no real vision. He never takes time to learn what it means to be king and, as a result, does not care about the responsibilities that come along with the title of being king. To make matters worse, he breaks laws and traditions that are essential to his own kingship and his bad behavior forces those under him to feel helpless, hopeless, and without direction. He does not care for the people and while he may have been an intelligent man, he was not strong in the way that a king needs to be strong. Undoubtedly, King Richard's strongest and best characteristic was his eloquence."
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"Hamlet", 2006.
A discussion on the characters in Shakespeare's "Hamlet".
1,461 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the differences and similarities between Hamlet and Laertes in terms of the revenge motif and the way that is it possibly related to the code of honor and the concept of revenge during Elizabethan times. The paper offers examples from the text in order to clarify and qualify its point.
From the Paper
"There is therefore a difference between the two characters in that Hamlet debates, thinks and agonizes about his revenge, even thought the ghost of his father has given him clear and unequivocal instructions to revenge his death. Despite this fact Hamlet seeks to make sure on a personal and individual level that the words of the ghost are correct and that there can be no mistake as to the guilt of Claudius. Hamlet looks for confirmation and this is the main reason why he acts as it he is mad in order to ascertain the true motives of those around him. This however is to result in the madness and death of Ophelia and the subsequent actions of Laertes."
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Shakespeare: Magic and the Supernatural, 2006.
This paper highlights the magic and supernatural themes present in Shakespeare's "A Mid-Summer Nights Dream", "Hamlet" and "The Winter's Tale".
860 words (approx. 3.4 pages), 0 sources, $ 30.95
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Abstract
The author emphasizes the ideas of magic, fairies and ghosts that lie, sometimes hidden, in the works of Shakespeare. In "A Mid-Summer Nights Dream" the main theme is that of magic, with fairies; in "Hamlet" the theme is ghostly apparitions, whilst "The Winter's Tale" is full of the supernatural in many different forms. The author points out that these plays continue to appeal to many people in many different cultures, perhaps because of the various themes and ideas related to magic and the supernatural.
From the Paper
"In A Mid-Summer Nights Dream, Shakespeare utilizes many themes and symbols, yet the most predominant theme is that of magic, especially in relation to fairies and other supernatural beings. The play itself was written to celebrate a marriage, perhaps for a private performance at a great estate or possibly at court, and it must be remembered that fairies dominate all aspects of this play, a possible reflection on the Elizabethan penchant for fairies in relation to weddings. The plotline in this play is actually three, one layered upon another, the first being Theseus and the four lovers, the second, the silliness of Bottom and his friends, and lastly, the fairy plot. In this play, there are "songs" or slices of poetry that allude to Robin Goodfellow, a fairy from Oberon, where ghosts abound and where the King and Queen of fairies sing and dance in the moonlight. These fairies are also artificers and creators of illusion and use strange ointments and pranks to make their powers known to all. Thus, the function of the fairies in this play is to create the illusion of magic, something that was quite important in any Elizabethan wedding ceremony, especially when taking place in the dim and dark forest just outside of the palace at Athens."
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Parents and Children in Shakespeare, 2006.
This paper discusses the plays "Henry V" and "The Merchant of Venice" and highlights the parent/child relationships within the plays.
968 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 0 sources, $ 34.95
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Abstract
Both of these plays "Henry V" and "The Merchant of Venice" delve into the complex world of parent/child relationships. In "Henry V" we see how the young king's actions are heavily influenced by the relationship with his father and how his father's blood and legacy determine the path he will take. In "The Merchant of Venice" there are more contrasts in the relationships with affection between Lancelot and his father Old Gobbo, but the opposite with Jessica and her father Shylock. The writer shows how the parent/child relationship has dominated families for centuries, and Shakespeare's works help show the complexities of this nearly unavoidable family relationship.
From the Paper
"Difficulties with parent/child relationships have been common themes for centuries, and it seems that was no different in Shakespeare's time. Many of Shakespeare's works include some sort of relationship between parent and child at odds. Often, this relationship is the catalyst that alters the play's plot and outcome (think of Romeo & Juliet, and the family feud between the Capulets and the Montegues). These two plays indicate parent/child relationships can be amicable, such as the relationship between Lancelot Gobbo and his father Old Gobbo, or they can be acrimonious, such as the relationship between Jessica and her father, Shylock. The lives of these characters indicate the strong bond between parent and child that, if not careful, can turn into a form of bondage and great discontent. Both plays illustrate difficult parent/child relationships and the ability of parents to mold and influence their children's lives, even after death."
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Shakespeare's "King Lear", 2006.
A look at the theme in William Shakespeare's play, "King Lear" about the lessons learned from death and aging.
1,586 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the theme of death and old age in William Shakespeare's play "King Lear", explaining that it is an important theme because it educates us about life and serves as a catalyst for King Lear's transformation. The paper further explains that King Lear would not have become the man he was at his death had he not experienced the turmoil, pain and suffering that old age and death had introduced into his life.
From the Paper
"This passage reveals something significant in King Lear's character--a complete turnaround. What he once thought was important, including the trappings of royalty, is not. What we see in this scene is a man resigned to happily spend the rest of his days in prison as long as he has the love of his daughter. Their reconciliation proves that peace can be discovered in the worst of circumstances. Because of their experiences, King Lear and Cordelia are changed throughout the course of the play. Of course, this is more prevalent with King Lear, who seems to find utter contentment in catastrophe."
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