Identifier

etd-06132005-084216

Degree

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

English

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

This paper looks into the inner workings of Michael Almereyda's Hamlet (2000). Even though Almereyda updates the setting and cuts many of the lines, sometimes entire scenes, from the source text, he is able to convey the some of the themes through his use of technology and media. While some themes do transfer into the postmodern setting, the places of discord are most interesting. Of particular interest is his use of modern technologies to display the corruption found in Shakespeare's play. These technologies, including speakerphone, surveillance equipment, wiring devices, handheld camcorders, and still photography, create an atmosphere of both continual connection to and continual isolation from others. Another theme continued in this filmic version is the problems associated with memory. Because of the constant bombardment of video and still images, Hamlet, Ophelia, and Gertrude all encounter difficulties remembering the past; for Hamlet, the repetition of images eventually causes him to forget the very things he was trying to remember. By the end of the film, we, the critics, become like Hamlet. In search for the truth behind the film, we mimic his editing techniques.

Date

2005

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Release the entire work immediately for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Anna Nardo

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_theses.1621

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