Peer Review 1

Here is the link to Anna’s Globe Theatre Production of Hamlet Review ash=5d00e5f09c337ea37947c2505800740c#comment-43

Hey Anna,
Really nice review! I am in the same boat as you, having studied Shakespeare since year 9… and I agree experiencing an authentic play at the Globe would truly deepen my appreciation of his art.
I enjoy your non-literary analysis (costumes, stage directions and characterisation) of the play, I think it is important to acknowledge the directors choices in order to strengthen the meaning of the play.
I would like to share my thoughts about Ophelia as male actor. initially, I was startled and excited by the choice. When reading the play, I had always envisioned Ophelia as a petite, fair, vulnerable looking character. This is due to how every role she has in the play is defined by a relationship with a male; Polonius (dad), Laertes (brother) and Hamlet (lover). Shakespeare characterised her to rely on other people’s roles in the play, she could not stand alone. Her agency is taken away from her by the males in her life from the moment we meet her in Act One, the men are telling her what to do.
The Globe’s Ophelia has a stronger stage presence and demands more attention from the audience, thus. intrinsically making Ophelia a more independent character. 

Thanks for sharing! 

Cheers,
Vic