Description
Book SynopsisShakespeare''s famous play,
Hamlet, has been the subject of more scholarly analysis and criticism than any other work of literature in human history. For all of its generally acknowledged virtues, however, it has also been treated as problematic in a raft of ways. In
Philosophy and the Puzzles of Hamlet, Leon Craig explains that the most oft-cited problems and criticisms are actually solvable puzzles. Through a close reading of the philosophical problems presented in
Hamlet, Craig attempts to provide solutions to these puzzles. The posing of puzzles, some more conspicuous, others less so, is fundamental to Shakespeare''s philosophical method and purpose. That is, he has crafted his plays, and
Hamlet in particular, so as to stimulate philosophical activity in the judicious (as distinct from the unskillful) readers. By virtue of showing what so many critics treat as faults or flaws are actually intended to be interpretive challenges, Craig aims to raise appre
Trade ReviewThis book holds its own with other books on Shakespeare’s plays, especially other books devoted to Hamlet. Mr. Craig takes other scholars into account, from A.C. Bradley to Harold Bloom, and because of his conversancy with these many other scholars, without weighing his own thoughts down, the book fits well with the most significant scholarship on Shakespeare. It says some startling things, which I consider a strength; Craig’s claims call forth a response in the form of further conversation. The novel insights he has and the interpretations he gives do not simply have to be accepted or rejected: they provoke further thought and take the reader more deeply into the play. * Pamela Jensen, Professor of Political Science Emerita, Kenyon College, USA *
Table of ContentsAcknowledgements PROLOGUE Chapter One: HORATIO AND THE PIRATES Chapter Two: WHICHEVER WAY THE WIND BLOWS Chapter Three: THE THEATRE OF REALITY Chapter Four: “WHY, WHAT A KING IS THIS!” Chapter Five: HAMLET’S ENGLISH MADNESS EPILOGUE Notes Bibliography
