- A complete examination of the role that madness has in the set texts. This encompasses theme, hamartia, the intended effect of dramatisation of insanity as well as how this theme touches on the lesser characters
- Detailed assessment of the changes that Hamlet undergoes to move from procrastination to eventual murder of the King. This includes a look at Hamlet’s hamartia and what caused it to disappear.
Shakespeare’s Presentation of Villainy
- This essay explores the very nature of villainy, what this means for its dramatisation and the important areas of note in Hamlet and King Lear
- Hamlet's reluctance to revenge has fascinated audiences for centauries. Here Hamlet’s changing views on the subject are documented and analysed.
- Does the tragedy of the texts lie in the characters or the surroundings in which they find themselves? The paper looks at each work separately to determine what seems to be the case for either one and then looks at why this might be so.
Shakespeare's Dramatisation of Kingship
This is slightly controversial and is not so much a look at Kingship as it is Claudius’ character, including possible arguments to put the case that his character is more important than that of Hamlet in terms of forwarding the play.
Samuel Taylor Coleridge's Hamlet Lecture
Coleridge's fantastically insightful essay on Hamlet. While of the highest standard it may be advisable to read some of the essays above before diving into this, as it can be very dense in places.
Samuel Taylor Coleridge's King Lear Essay
Coleridge was one of the greatest critics ever. The author of the essay on Shakespeare’s presentation of villainy was greatly impressed an influenced by this outstanding essay. However, Coleridge is by no means easy to read. If you are just learning these texts we suggest that you read our villainy essay before this one, otherwise enjoy!