Introduction The full name of this Shakespearean play is “The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark”. This is a dark story about revenge and how it can become all consuming. Students will learn many lessons throughout reading of this play. “Hamlet” is loosely based on the history of Denmark, and is suspected to have been written at the end of the 16th century or the beginning of the 17th century. As with many of this other works, Shakespeare was highly influenced by the world around him. “Hamlet” is performed regularly on stage, and 4 mainstream movies from 1946 to 2000, with actors ranging from Lawrence Olivier to Mel Gibson to Julia Stiles starring in these productions. It is a play known by many, which shows just how far Shakespeare’s influenced has reached over the centuries.Lesson Plan Format Shakespeare as a man, poet, and writer is significant. He was highly influenced by what was happening around him in Elizabethan England. During each session, students will read portions of the play, look at historical context for what was written, delve into the various controversies that surround William Shakespeare and how these relate to his writings and the world today.
