Hamlet 1.5 What the Critics Say

The video explores the innovative portrayal of the ghost in Shakespeare's Hamlet, contrasting it with traditional revenge tragedies. It discusses New Historicism, emphasizing the importance of understanding the cultural context of Shakespeare's time. The video also debates whether Shakespeare's themes are universal or context-specific. Finally, it delves into the nature of the ghost in Hamlet, questioning its role and significance in the play.

How did Shakespeare's portrayal of the ghost in Hamlet differ from traditional revenge tragedies?

• The ghost was more comedic and light-hearted.

• The ghost was more realistic and authoritative.

• The ghost was invisible to the audience.

• The ghost was portrayed as a friendly spirit.

What is one of the main goals of New Historicism in literary criticism?

• To analyze the grammatical structure of the text.

• To focus solely on the author's biography.

• To understand the historical context of a work.

• To ignore historical context and focus on universal themes.

According to some critics, what makes Shakespeare's works timeless?

• His universal themes that resonate across ages.

• His use of complex language.

• His focus on historical events.

• His detailed stage directions.

What is a key question regarding the ghost's nature in Hamlet?

• Why does the ghost appear only to Hamlet?

• Is the ghost a soul from purgatory or an evil spirit?

• Is the ghost visible to the audience?

• Why does the ghost speak in riddles?

Why might Hamlet be inclined to believe the ghost is his father's spirit?

• He wants to communicate with his father again.

• He is unaware of the ghost's existence.

• He is convinced by Horatio's arguments.

• He has no other choice but to believe.

What does Stephen Greenblatt suggest about Hamlet's belief in the ghost?

• Hamlet is convinced the ghost is a fictional character.

• Hamlet is certain the ghost is a devil.

• Hamlet is desperate to believe the ghost is his father.

• Hamlet is indifferent to the ghost's identity.

What theatrical element does the ghost in Hamlet combine?

• Action and adventure.

• Romance and mystery.

• Revenge tragedy and human desire for contact with the dead.

• Comedy and tragedy.