Hamlet | Simple Shakespeare Series

By Jeanette Vigon

This modern adaptation of "Hamlet" breathes new life into Shakespeare's legendary tale, presenting it in contemporary English to draw readers into the vortex of betrayal, revenge, and existential angst at the heart of the play. With Prince Hamlet's story unfurling in the modern vernacular, the timeless tragedy of the Danish prince wrestling with grief, moral uncertainty, and the specter of vengeance becomes more accessible and immediate. Whether you're meeting Hamlet for the first time or returning to the shadowed corridors of Elsinore Castle, this version is crafted to convey the raw emotion and profound insights of Shakespeare's work in a language that speaks directly to the modern reader.

Key features of this modern version of "Hamlet":

• Showcases Shakespeare's intricate narrative and deep philosophical queries in clear, modern English, broadening its appeal.
• Maintains the original's narrative depth and existential themes, ensuring the essence of Shakespeare's vision remains intact without the need for external commentary.
• Perfect for educational settings and readers seeking an intuitive understanding of the play’s themes, characters, and complex storyline.
• Draws in readers of today with an age-old exploration of revenge, sanity, loyalty, and existential musings, proving the play's enduring relevance.
• Preserves the emotional intensity and character complexity that Shakespeare is renowned for, allowing a direct connection to the dilemmas and passions of his characters.
• Stimulates critical thought and discussion around perennial human concerns such as justice, the effects of grief, and the essence of existence, inviting readers to ponder deeply.
• Opens up Shakespeare's oeuvre to new audiences, encouraging exploration and appreciation of literary artistry with ease and enthusiasm.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jeanette Vigon
• Release date: Apr 10, 2024
• ISBN: 9791223034170

Book preview

INTRODUCTION

In this contemporary reinterpretation of Hamlet, William Shakespeare's enduring masterpiece about betrayal, madness, and revenge is vividly brought into the present for today's viewers.

Set in the enigmatic atmosphere of Elsinore, Denmark, the narrative begins with the mysterious death of King Hamlet, leaving the kingdom in turmoil and setting the stage for a complex web of intrigue and vengeance. Prince Hamlet is haunted not only by the ghost of his father demanding retribution but also by the moral and existential dilemmas that this request entails.

As Hamlet wrestles with his conscience, his loyalty to his father, and his disillusionment with the corruption he sees around him, the story explores themes of identity, mortality, and the deeply flawed nature of humanity. His feigned or perhaps genuine descent into madness serves as a critical reflection on the human condition, questioning the very nature of truth and the cost of seeking justice.

This modern version of Hamlet transforms Shakespeare’s rich, Elizabethan language into the vernacular of today, making the story accessible and engaging while retaining the depth of its original themes and characters. With a sharp focus on the internal and external conflicts that drive the prince to the brink of disaster, it presents a gripping tale of a young man grappling with the heavy burden of avenging his father's suspicious death amidst a corrupt court.

As the tragedy unfolds, the timeless inquiry into whether the ends justify the means, and at what point the pursuit of justice becomes an act of sheer madness, strikes a chord with contemporary audiences. This adaptation invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of human nature and the shadows that lurk within and around us, proving that Hamlet remains as relevant and profound today as it was when it first captivated audiences over four centuries ago.

ACT I

SCENE 1

In the chill of the night, at the castle of Elsinore, Francisco stood guard. As Bernardo approached, a brief exchange of cautious greetings ensued.

Who's there? Bernardo called out into the darkness.

Stop and identify yourself, Francisco replied, wary of the unseen voice.

It's me, Bernardo. Long may the king live!

Bernardo? Francisco's tone softened, recognizing his fellow guard. You're right on time.

It's midnight. Time for you to rest, Francisco.

Thanks, I could use the break. It's freezing, and I'm feeling down.

Has your watch been peaceful?

Quiet as a whisper.

Goodnight then. If you bump into Horatio and Marcellus, tell them to hurry up.

Just then, Francisco sensed others approaching. Hold! Who goes there?

Horatio and Marcellus, loyal to their land and king, joined them.

We're friends here, Horatio announced.

And loyal subjects, Marcellus added.

Wishing you a good night, Francisco greeted, preparing to leave.

Goodbye, brave guard. Who's taking over for you?

Bernardo's up next. Goodnight. With that, Francisco departed.

Marcellus, noticing Bernardo, called out to him. Bernardo, in turn, asked about Horatio.

Is Horatio with you?

Part of me is, Horatio joked lightly.

Welcome, Horatio, and you too, Marcellus. It's good to see you both.

Marcellus turned the conversation to a matter of eerie significance. Has that apparition shown itself again tonight?

I haven't seen anything, Bernardo replied.

Marcellus continued, Horatio thinks it's just our imagination and refuses to believe in the ghost we've seen twice. That's why I asked him to join us tonight. If the ghost appears again, he can see it for himself and talk to it.

Horatio, skeptical, dismissed the concern. It's not going to show up.

Bernardo suggested, Let's sit down for a bit, and we'll tell you the story you've been doubting. Maybe then you'll understand what we've witnessed these past two nights.

Alright, let's sit, Horatio agreed, I'm ready to listen to Bernardo's account.

Bernardo began, It was last night, just as the same star we see now was setting in the west, Marcellus and I⁠—

Suddenly, Marcellus interrupted, Quiet! Look, it's back again!

And there it was, the ghost, in the same form as the deceased king.

Marcellus, recognizing the gravity of the moment, urged, You're educated, Horatio. You should speak to it.

Bernardo agreed, Doesn't it look like the king? See for yourself, Horatio.

Horatio, deeply unsettled yet intrigued, admitted, It does resemble him. It fills me with both fear and wonder.

Bernardo hinted, It seems like it wants to communicate.

Try talking to it, Horatio, Marcellus suggested.

So Horatio, gathering his courage, addressed the ghost, Who are you to walk the night in the armor of the late Danish king? By the heavens, I command you to speak!

As the ghost silently departed, Marcellus noted, It's offended.

Look, it's leaving! Bernardo observed.

Horatio called after it, Stay! Speak to us! I command you to speak! But the ghost vanished into the night, leaving them in silence.

It's gone and won't respond, Marcellus remarked.

Bernardo turned to Horatio, who was visibly shaken, You're trembling and look pale. Do you still think this is just our imagination? What's your take on this now?

Horatio, profoundly affected, confessed, I would not have believed this had I not seen it with my own eyes.

Doesn't it look just like the king? Marcellus pressed.

As much as you look like yourself, Horatio agreed. He wore that armor when he fought against Norway, and with that same fierce expression, he once struck down the Polish on the ice. It's peculiar.

Marcellus shared, This is the third time the ghost has appeared, always at this hour, moving with a warrior's stride.

Horatio pondered the implications, I don't know what to make of it, but it seems to forewarn some major upheaval for our country.

Marcellus, seeking answers, posed a question, Can anyone explain why we're keeping such a strict and vigilant watch every night? Why the urgent production of cannons and the constant trading for weapons? Why are shipbuilders working nonstop, without even a break on Sundays? What's prompting this frantic preparation, merging night and day in labor? Who has the answers?

Horatio, now more engaged in the conversation, began to explain, I can shed some light on that. Rumor has it that our late king, whose ghost we've just seen, was challenged to a duel by Fortinbras of Norway. The challenge, driven by Fortinbras' pride, led to a combat in which our esteemed Hamlet, the father of the current Hamlet, emerged victorious. Fortinbras lost not only his life but also his lands to Hamlet as per their agreement, legally bound and recognized. However, had Fortinbras won, he would have claimed lands from our king.

Now, the young Fortinbras, fiery and eager to prove himself, has gathered a band of mercenaries in Norway. He's preparing them for an attack, not for glory but to reclaim the lands his father lost. This threat from Fortinbras is likely why we're arming ourselves so heavily, keeping watch, and why there's such urgency in our preparations.

Bernardo nodded in agreement, It makes sense. The appearance of the ghost, looking so much like the late king, might well be a sign related to these brewing conflicts.

Horatio continued, Such phenomena often precede significant events. Remember how, just before Julius Caesar's assassination, the dead walked the streets of Rome, and natural disasters were taken as omens of doom? It seems like this ghost's appearance could be a similar omen for us.

Just then, the ghost reappeared, prompting Horatio to confront it boldly. I'll face it, even at the risk of harm. Stay, apparition! If you can speak or have any purpose, talk to me. If there's something good that can be done to ease your spirit and benefit me, please speak. If you know of any impending doom for our country that we might prevent, I beg you, tell us. Or, if you're wandering because of buried treasure, reveal that to us. Marcellus, stop it from leaving.

Marcellus, eager to act, asked if he should strike the ghost with his weapon.

Do it if it won't stay, Horatio agreed.

But as they focused on the ghost, it vanished once again.

We shouldn't have tried to use force on something so majestic, Marcellus reflected, regretting their approach to the supernatural being. It's as untouchable as the air, and trying to hit it is just pointless.

Bernardo noted the timing of its departure. It was about to speak right when the rooster crowed.

Horatio observed, And it reacted as if caught doing something wrong, summoned unexpectedly. I've heard that the rooster's call, heralding the morning, sends wandering spirits back to their confines, whether they roam through water, fire, earth, or air. What we've seen tonight proves that.

Marcellus added, It disappeared at the sound of the cock crowing. There's a belief that during the time of Christmas, when we celebrate our Savior's birth, the rooster sings all night long, and no spirit dares to wander. The night becomes safe, no harm from the stars, no enchantment from fairies or witches. Such is the sanctity of the season.

Horatio agreed, "I've heard the same and partly believe it. But look, dawn is breaking, spreading its light over the hills. It's time we ended our watch. I suggest