Mastering Hamlet: Analyzing Shakespeare’s Tragedy of Power and Revenge

In this Hamlet course, students will explore the full text of Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy, engaging with its themes, characters, and language. The class will focus on developing skills in literary analysis, critical thinking, and textual interpretation, while making Shakespeare's language accessible and relatable. Students will also learn about the historical context of the play and its relevance to modern-day issues.

Throughout the course, we will cover key themes such as revenge, power, madness, morality, and existentialism. We will explore the character arcs of Hamlet, Ophelia, Claudius, and other major figures; we will also work on understanding Shakespeare’s use of soliloquies and dramatic devices like irony, symbolism, and foreshadowing. Furthermore, we will investigate the historical and cultural context of the Elizabethan era.

This class is structured over 8 weeks, with each session focusing on specific acts, scenes, or themes. Students will be expected to read portions of the play before each class, and we will engage close readings and interactive activities. 

The final weeks will allow students to synthesize what they’ve learned by reflecting on the play as a whole, with an opportunity to complete a creative or analytical project related to Hamlet.

My teaching approach is student-centered and interactive. I balance lectures with dynamic class discussions, where students are encouraged to share their interpretations and ideas. We’ll use multimedia tools such as slides, video clips (from adaptations of Hamlet), and visual aids to support understanding of Shakespeare’s language and ideas. I will also incorporate fun elements like character debates, creative writing prompts, and optional projects to deepen engagement with the material.

My teaching style is engaging, supportive, and focused on making the material accessible. I believe in fostering a collaborative learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their views. I break down complex language and themes into manageable parts, helping students connect Shakespeare’s work to their own lives. I emphasize critical thinking and creativity, encouraging students to think deeply about the text and apply what they learn to broader concepts.

Learners will have plenty of opportunities to interact with me and their classmates. Each session will involve discussion boards where students can share their interpretations, interactive activities like character analysis and games, creative projects or optional assignments for more in-depth exploration. Students will receive feedback on their participation, ideas, and optional assignments.

I will be available to answer questions, provide additional guidance, and offer personalized feedback as needed. I aim to create an open, inclusive environment where every student feels valued and supported in their learning journey.