Hamlet | Shakespeare for kids

By Jeanette Vigon

Embark on a magical journey into the heart of Denmark with "Hamlet," adapted from the legendary William Shakespeare's masterpiece by Jeanette Vigon. This book breathes new life into the classic tale, making it accessible and captivating for young readers. Dive into a world where castles hold whispered secrets, jesters offer riddles that spark the imagination, and young Prince Hamlet confronts mysteries that will test his courage and reveal the essence of true friendship.

Key Highlights:

• Simplified for Young Minds: Jeanette Vigon masterfully adapts Shakespeare's intricate language and complex themes into a format that's engaging and understandable for children.
• A World of Intrigue and Adventure: Explore the foggy kingdom of Denmark through the eyes of Prince Hamlet, reimagined for kids with ghostly encounters, playful jesters, and secret plots.
• Lessons in Courage and Integrity: Amidst the adventure, young readers will find valuable lessons about bravery, honesty, and staying true to oneself.

Whether you're a parent seeking to introduce your child to the wonders of Shakespeare, or a young reader eager for a tale of mystery and adventure, "Hamlet" offers a perfect blend of education and entertainment. Join Hamlet, Horatio, and a memorable cast of characters in an unforgettable exploration of friendship, loyalty, and the quest for truth.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jeanette Vigon
• Release date: May 3, 2024
• ISBN: 9791223036624

Book preview

Hamlet

SHAKESPEARE FOR KIDS

JEANETTE VIGON

Copyright © 2023 Jeanette Vigon

All rights reserved.

This book is a modern adaptation for children of William Shakespeare's Hamlet, which is a work in the public domain. While the original story and characters are based on Shakespeare's play, this adaptation includes significant original content tailored for a young audience. These additions include simplified language and reimagined scenes, specifically created to make this timeless tale accessible and engaging for young readers. The intention of this adaptation is to introduce children to the classic story in a manner that respects the essence of Shakespeare's original work, while presenting it in a way that is relatable and understandable for a younger audience.

Contents

Why I wrote this book the way I Did

Introduction

ACT I

scene 1

scene 2

Scene 3

Scene 4

scene 5

ACT II

scene 1

scene 2

ACT III

scene 1

scene 2

Scene 3

Scene 4

ACT IV

scene 1

scene 2

Scene 3

Scene 4

scene 5

scene 6

scene 7

ACT V

scene 1

scene 2

THE END

The Life of William Shakespeare

About the Author

Afterword

Shakespeare for Kids - Other books in the series

Why I wrote this book the way I Did

When I embarked on the journey of adapting Shakespeare's plays for children, my primary goal was to bridge the gap between the timeless allure of Shakespeare's narratives and the imaginative worlds of young readers. The decision to adapt these plays for children was driven by a desire to introduce them to the richness of literary classics at an early age, fostering a love for literature that could grow with them.

Choosing to maintain the original structure of acts and scenes was a deliberate effort to preserve the integrity and rhythm of Shakespeare's works. This approach not only honors the original compositions but also introduces young readers to the conventions of drama and the beauty of structured storytelling. It was important to me that children experience the plays as they were intended, albeit in a more accessible form.

Incorporating literary language while ensuring it remains engaging and understandable for children was a balancing act. I aimed to simplify the complexity of Shakespeare's language without diluting its power and beauty. By carefully selecting vocabulary and crafting sentences that convey the essence of the original plays, I aspired to captivate young minds and stimulate their intellectual curiosity.

Adapting these plays also involved making thoughtful choices about content, ensuring that themes and scenes were appropriate for a young audience. This required a sensitive approach to storytelling, where the lessons of love, loyalty, betrayal, and justice are presented in a manner that is both educational and entertaining.

In summary, the creation of this book was a labor of love, guided by the belief that Shakespeare's works are not just for adults but for everyone. By adapting these plays for children, I hope to plant the seeds of appreciation for classic literature in the fertile ground of young imaginations, encouraging a lifelong journey of reading, learning, and discovery.

I truly hope you will enjoy reading it, as much as I enjoyed re-writing it.

Introduction

Welcome to the mysterious and captivating world of Hamlet, as we journey to the foggy and intriguing kingdom of Denmark, where the tale of our brooding hero unfolds. This isn't just a story of ghosts and royal intrigue; it's an adventure of courage, mystery, and the complex paths of the human heart.

Our story is set in an era where secrets were whispered in grand castles, not texted on phones, and sneaking around meant traversing the echoing halls and shadowy corners of Elsinore Castle, not just using stealthy apps. In this realm, Prince Hamlet, a thoughtful and introspective young man, grapples with truths that are as deep and shifting as the ocean tides.

In one corner of the castle, we have Hamlet, burdened by his father's mysterious death and the swift remarriage of his mother, Queen Gertrude, to his Uncle Claudius. But this is no ordinary family drama—it's a web of secrets and lies, with a ghostly twist!

Don't worry, though; this isn't just a gloomy tale of royal woes. We're going to sprinkle some excitement and intrigue into this story. There will be playful jesters with riddles that tickle your brain, secret plots that will have you guessing, and perhaps even a dash of royal mischief to stir the pot. And yes, amidst the shadows, there will be moments of friendship and loyalty that will warm your heart. So, settle into your coziest chair and get ready to explore Hamlet in a way that's perfect for kids. Imagine sword duels turning into pretend battles, spooky ghost stories becoming exciting treasure hunts, and a tale that teaches us about bravery, honesty, and the importance of being true to oneself.

Are you excited? Then let's join Prince Hamlet, his loyal friend Horatio, and a cast of unforgettable characters as we dive into a legendary story that has captivated audiences for centuries, but with a fresh and kid-friendly twist. Here we go, into the enigmatic world of Hamlet, where every shadow has a story, and every whisper holds a clue!

ACT I

scene 1

In the chilly kingdom of Elsinore, right in front of the castle, Francisco stood shivering on duty. The flagstones of the platform were cold beneath his feet.

Bernardo popped up out of the night. Who's there? he called out into the dark.

Whoa, who are you? Let's see you first, Francisco replied, trying to make out who it was in the gloomy light.

Bernardo smiled a little. Long live the king!

Francisco recognized his voice. Ah, Bernardo?

That's me, Bernardo confirmed with a nod.

You're exactly on time, Francisco said, relieved that his shift was ending.

The clock just chimed midnight; you can go get cozy in bed, Francisco, Bernardo suggested.

Francisco yawned. Oh, thank you! It's so cold it's nipping at my nose, and my heart feels all wobbly and weird, he grumbled, wrapping his arms around himself.

Bernardo was curious. Did anything happen while you were on guard?

Not even a mouse squeaked, Francisco assured him.

Bernardo was about to say good night when he added, Oh, if you bump into Horatio and Marcellus, tell them to speed it up.

I hear some footsteps. Hold on! Who's there? Francisco called out, hearing more people coming.

Horatio and Marcellus joined them, their breath misting in the cold air.

We're just friends coming to hang out, Horatio said, waving a hand.

And we're loyal to the ruler of this land, Marcellus added with a quick salute.

Alright, you guys have a good night, Francisco said, eager to leave and get warm.

Marcellus waved goodbye. Goodbye, brave soldier. Who's taking over your spot?

Bernardo's here now. Have a good one, Francisco said, already starting to head out.

After Francisco left, the air was filled with whispers. Marcellus called to get Bernardo's attention. Hey, Bernardo!

What's up? Oh, is Horatio with you? Bernardo asked, squinting in the dim light.

Horatio joked, Part of me, anyway.

Welcome, Horatio! And a big hello to you, good Marcellus, Bernardo greeted them both with a tired smile.

Marcellus got right to the point. So, did that weird ghost show up again tonight?

Bernardo shook his head. I didn't see a thing.

Marcellus sighed. Horatio here thinks we're imagining things. He doesn't believe in the spooky ghost we've seen two times now. That's why I dragged him out here—so if it appears again, he'll see it with his own eyes!

Horatio scoffed. Pfft, it won't appear.

Bernardo gestured to a spot on the ground. Sit down for a bit. Let's try to tell you the story one more time. Maybe then you'll believe us.

Horatio agreed. Okay, let's sit. I want to hear this tale from you, Bernardo.

Bernardo began, Well, last night of all, when that particular star over there was twinkling its way down to bed, and the castle clock had just tolled one...

They huddled together, the night wrapped around them like a cloak, as they shared their ghostly encounter.

Just as the three friends were sharing their tale, out of nowhere, a mysterious figure appeared. It looked just like the deceased king, all dressed up in armor from head to toe!

Marcellus hushed them and pointed. Look, look! The ghost is back!

Bernardo was wide-eyed. He's dressed just like the king that died.

Marcellus nudged Horatio. You're the brainy one; talk to it, Horatio.

Bernardo agreed. Doesn't it look just like the king, Horatio? Do you see it?

Horatio nodded, his voice trembling a little with fear and amazement. It's uncanny. It really strikes me with fear and wonder.

Bernardo whispered, It's waiting for us to say something.

Marcellus urged, Go on, Horatio, ask it something!

Horatio, trying to be brave, stepped forward. Who are you that walk the night in the armor of our dear king who lies in his grave? By the stars, I demand you to talk!

Marcellus gulped. Oh no, it's upset.

Bernardo pointed frantically. It's leaving!

Horatio begged, Wait! Talk, talk! Please, talk to us!

But just like that, the ghost vanished into the night. Marcellus shook his head. It's gone and won't say a word.

Bernardo turned to Horatio, seeing him shaken. What's up, Horatio? You look scared white. This has got to be real, right? What do you think now?

Horatio was still in shock. I wouldn't believe this if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes.

Marcellus was curious. It really looked like the king, huh?

Horatio agreed. "Exactly like him. He wore that same armor when he fought Norway, and when he looked all angry smashing the ice