The Hamlet Podcast Episode 72 - Did He Receive You Well?
Feb 10, 2019
Discover the twisting dynamics of Act III, Scene i, where Claudius quizzes Rosencrantz and Guildenstern about Hamlet. Delve into Hamlet's clever trap and the king's simultaneous machinations. Explore the tension between politeness and honesty through Gertrude's probing question. Conor Hanratty sheds light on the historical context of the word 'niggardly' and discusses the protective role of the spies in concealing Hamlet's plans. Finally, experience the joy brought by the arrival of the traveling players, illuminating a rare bright moment in Hamlet's dark world.
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Episode notes
Scene Starts In Medias Res
- Act 3 begins in medias res with King and company entering as Hamlet exits, creating theatrical momentum.
- Conor Hanratty highlights this staging as Shakespeare's way to jump straight into dramatic tension.
Claudius Asks His Spies For Answers
- Claudius is actively debriefing Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to discover Hamlet's state and motives.
- Conor suggests the king doubts whether Hamlet's madness is genuine and treats the boys as investigative proxies.
Textual Variant Changes Meaning
- The host compares quarto and folio readings and prefers 'conference' over 'circumstance' to clarify Claudius's intent.
- This textual choice sharpens the idea that Claudius expects the conversation to be steered toward Hamlet's behaviour.