The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark

"The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark" by William Shakespeare is a classic play written during the late 16th to early 17th century. The text revolves around themes of revenge, madness, and moral corruption, primarily focusing on the character of Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark, who grapples with the sudden death of his father and the hasty remarriage of his mother, Gertrude, to his uncle, Claudius. The opening of "Hamlet" begins with the anxious guards Barnardo and Francisco on watch, leading to the appearance of the ghost of King Hamlet. They are later joined by Horatio and Marcellus, who express their concerns about the ghost's return, fearing it may herald ill news for the state. The ghost's appearance triggers conversations about the current political unrest due to Norway's Fortinbras seeking to reclaim land lost by his father. The scene sets the stage for young Hamlet's deepening sorrow and ensuing quest for truth regarding his father's mysterious death, particularly after Horatio reveals having seen the ghost which resembles the late king. As the drama unfolds, it becomes clear that Hamlet will navigate through layers of intrigue, betrayal, and existential despair in pursuit of revenge and understanding of his world turned upside-down. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Shakespeare was an English playwright, poet and actor. He is widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. He is often called England's national poet and the "Bard of Avon". His extant works, including collaborations, consist of some 39 plays, 154 sonnets, three long narrative poems and a few other verses, some of uncertain authorship. His plays have been translated into every major living language and are performed more often than those of any other playwright. Shakespeare remains arguably the most influential writer in the English language, and his works continue to be studied and reinterpreted.