The Hamlet Podcast
Conor Hanratty
A weekly podcast now exploring Shakespeare's Macbeth. Every episode covers approximately 30 lines of the play - week by week, until we finish sometime in 2023!
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 12, 2019 • 11min
Episode 83 - The Mirror Up to Nature
Explore Hamlet's theatrical wisdom as he coaches the traveling players on balancing drama with authenticity. Discover his critiques of past performances peppered with clever wordplay. The focus is on observing human nature, revealing how subtly it can be portrayed on stage. This discussion not only illuminates the art of performance but also reflects Hamlet's deeper understanding of the complexities of life.

May 5, 2019 • 11min
Episode 82 - Trippingly on the Tongue
Delve into the art of performance as Hamlet transforms into a director, offering actors invaluable insights on authenticity. Discover the metatheatrical layers of his instructions and how they reflect the emotional depth of the play. The balance between clarity and emotional control in acting takes center stage, drawing parallels with opera's discipline. This captivating discussion reveals the intricate dance between technique and expression, shedding light on the timeless craft of theater.

Apr 21, 2019 • 7min
Episode 81 - Madness in Great Ones Must not Unwatched Go
The Hamlet Podcast - a weekly exploration of Shakespeare's Hamlet.
Act III, Scene i - Polonius has his own lethal suggestion for what should be done about Hamlet's madness.
Written and presented by Conor Hanratty.

Apr 14, 2019 • 9min
Episode 80 - O, what a noble mind is here o'erthrown!
The Hamlet Podcast - a weekly exploration of Shakespeare's Hamlet.
Act III, Scene i - Ophelia is left alone to lament Hamlet's madness, but Claudius thinks the cause might lie elsewhere.
Written and presented by Conor Hanratty.

Apr 7, 2019 • 11min
Episode 79 - All But One Shall Live
The Hamlet Podcast - a weekly exploration of Shakespeare's Hamlet.
Act III, Scene i - Hamlet finishes with Ophelia and leaves.
Written and presented by Conor Hanratty.

Mar 31, 2019 • 10min
Episode 78 - Get Thee to a Nunnery
Dive into the emotional clash between Hamlet and Ophelia as tensions rise in their complex relationship. Explore the paradox of beauty and honesty, revealing Hamlet's cynical view of morality. Unpack the profound implications behind Hamlet's infamous nunnery advice, reflecting both his inner turmoil and disdain for women. This intricate dialogue sheds light on the themes of love, deception, and madness.

Mar 25, 2019 • 7min
Episode 77 - Are You Honest?
The Hamlet Podcast - a weekly exploration of Shakespeare's Hamlet.
Act III, Scene i - Hamlet and Ophelia begin a very awkward encounter.
Written and presented by Conor Hanratty.

Mar 17, 2019 • 23sec
Apologies!
Apologies that there will is no episode this week. I am completing a draft of my book about Yukio Ninagawa (whose Hamlet is pictured in the attached image) and so I'll have to get back to you next week. Thank you for your indulgence!

Mar 11, 2019 • 11min
Episode 76 - The Undiscovered Country
Dive into the ingenious use of sejura in Hamlet, where pauses shape the rhythm and deepen emotions. Reflect on Hamlet's iconic soliloquy, exploring life’s weighty questions and his internal struggle with mortality. Discover the dynamic between Hamlet and Ophelia, as his existential angst clashes with the complexities of human connection. Plus, enjoy a light moment with a humorous mix-up of Shakespearean titles!

Mar 3, 2019 • 15min
Episode 75 - To Be or Not To Be
Dive into the depths of Hamlet's iconic soliloquy as its existential themes are explored. The discussion unpacks the intricate relationship between life, death, and suffering, posing profound questions about human existence. Delve into the character's struggles and what it means to confront authority and justice. Personal anecdotes intertwine with Shakespeare's timeless insights, making it clear why these themes continue to resonate with audiences today.


