2. Explore Your Topic

After thoroughly examining your assignment, now it's time to look for some initial background research on your topic. Try a search in the following database to learn more about your topic.

Shakespeare for Students - Hamlet
ISBN: 9781414412559
Shakespeare for Students is a great place to start! Learn more about Hamlet's characters, themes, style, setting, symbols and more! This source also contains several literary criticism essays.

Analyzing Hamlet

What is the setting? (place and time)

What is the atmosphere? (historical / sociological)

How is the story told? (narrative / point of view)

What language is used? (style, tone, and irony)

Who are the main characters? (protagonist / antagonist / others)

Are there symbols used? (symbols)

How does the plot help the reader understand the theme?

What is the dramatic moment? What is the conflict?

What is the moment of climax? (turning point / illumination / understanding)

How does the play end? (resolution)