Why is Hamlet so famous?
The tragedy of Hamlet has been around since what is believed to be about 1599. So exactly why has this play been around for so long? Perhaps the most famous quotation comes from the existential dilemma that causes Hamlet to question whether he should continue living or just quit? Put into Shakespeare's brilliant language, Hamlet says, "To be or not to be, that is the question."(Shakespeare). As Hamlet is having trouble in life, he is able to show the voice of a problem that still confronts a large amount of people today. Other than the ever so popular quote, Hamlet really grabs the audience into the play. With ghosts, betrayal, madness, murder, and the famous bloodbath that takes place in the end, Hamlet would even be a major hit in Hollywood today. Yet another reason Hamlet remains around today, is that it brings up so many questions that are still debated today. For example, "To be or not to be, that is the question."(Shakespeare). Well we know the question but what is the answer. Although the book can hint at what the answer is believed to be, it is truly up to the audience to decide for themselves. Furthermore, the tragic play brings about questions of religion, philosophical issues, political issues, psychoanalytical issues, and also feminist issues.
I agree that the very modern psychological issues are important. Your mention of the existential problem is also very important.
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