Discussion Topic

Key points for the introduction and conclusion of a review of Shakespeare's Hamlet

Summary:

For an introduction to a review of Shakespeare's Hamlet, highlight its timeless themes of revenge, madness, and mortality, as well as its complex characters and intricate plot. In the conclusion, emphasize the play's enduring relevance, its impact on literature and culture, and the profound questions it raises about human nature and existential dilemmas.

Expert Answers

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What would be a concise conclusion for a review of Shakespeare's Hamlet?

Without knowing exactly what your play review is focused on, this is difficult.  Did your review praise the play?  Did your review condemn the play?  Or a mix of both?  Did your review focus on a specific character or series of events?  A conclusion is meant to summarize the body of your writing and give your reader a final push into caring why what you wrote, or why what you wrote is important.

Perhaps the following is what you are going for? 

"Although Hamlet is one of Shakespeare's great tragedies, the lack of any redeeming characters really sours the play for audiences.  It is a great story of revenge and intrigue, but most of the characters are motivated by selfish ambition, which makes the overall tone of the play quite dark.  Shakespeare wrote other tragedies, and those are the plays that readers will like more."  

It's more than 20...

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words, but 20 words is tough to get down to. It's also very vague and general. Like I said, I have no idea if you are praising the play or not.  

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What key points should be highlighted in a short introduction to a review of Hamlet?

I'm a little unclear as to what you want.  Do you want a short overview of the play?  Or do you want a short introduction to your review of the play?  Based on the wording of your question, I believe that you would like an introduction to your review.  

Good introductions grab the reader in the first sentence.  That is going to be important.  You can do that by asking a question, using a quote, making a bold statement, giving a definition, or by telling another short story.  I like to use the question or bold statement method because it gets me writing in my intended direction immediately.  But the other methods are good too.  Since you've said that your piece is a review, I'll assume that you are going to tell your reader why Hamlet is a good or bad play in your opinion.  

You could mention that Hamlet is one of Shakespeare's all time greatest tragedies. It combines mystery, fantasy, action, and intrigue.  You could also talk about how it allows audiences to witness Hamlet's deeply woven con to exact revenge against his step father.

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