

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

Mar 3, 2024 • 16min
King Lear | Episode 09 - Poor Judgement
Dive into the tangled web of loyalty and betrayal as Lear divides his kingdom among his daughters. Their emotional tensions and deceitful ambitions lay the groundwork for tragedy. Explore the escalating familial discord as Lear's declining sanity ignites power struggles, paving the way for dramatic confrontations. The introduction of Edmund adds an intriguing twist to the fray. Each moment highlights the complexity of their relationships, setting the stage for a gripping tale of ambition and discord.

Feb 25, 2024 • 16min
King Lear | Episode 08 - Grace and Favour
Delve into the tumultuous father-daughter dynamics as Cordelia earnestly pleads with King Lear, only to face his heart-wrenching rejection. Explore the poignant themes of familial love and the devastating impact of disinheritance. The episode reveals how Cordelia's loss of a parent transforms into an unexpected gain in love. This deep dive into emotional turmoil sets the stage for the unfolding tragedy that defines the play.

Feb 18, 2024 • 12min
King Lear | Episode 07 - Balm of Your Age
The discussion opens with Lear’s difficult choice regarding Cordelia’s dowry, showcasing the theme of misjudgment in his relationships. Listeners explore the emotional stakes as Lear confronts suitors, revealing the growing tension between love and loyalty. The segment dives into the darker aspects of family dynamics, foreshadowing Lear’s tragic journey. Expect deep insights into character motivations and the heartbreaking twists of Shakespeare’s tale.

Feb 11, 2024 • 12min
King Lear | Episode 06 - This Shall Not Be Revoked
Delve into the fierce conflict between King Lear and Kent as truths collide, leading to a shocking banishment. Explore the themes of madness and power struggles amid Lear's volatility. Experience a heartfelt farewell as Kent expresses deep concerns for Cordelia and casts doubt on Regan and Goneril's true intentions. The emotional weight of the court's dynamics sets the stage for the turbulent drama that follows.

Feb 4, 2024 • 16min
King Lear | Episode 05 - I Loved Her Most
Explore the explosive fallout of miscommunication as King Lear's pride drives a wedge between him and Cordelia. Witness Kent's defiance against Lear's authority, captivatingly highlighting themes of loyalty and rebellion. Tension rises with cliffhanger moments, promising dramatic confrontations ahead. Delve into the complex relationships that shape the fate of the kingdom, revealing the dark consequences of pride and misunderstanding.

Jan 28, 2024 • 17min
King Lear | Episode 04 - Nothing
The podcast delves into the complex dynamics between King Lear and his daughter Cordelia, focusing on a poignant contest for love. Cordelia's candid answer shocks Lear, unraveling their relationship and leading to tragic consequences. The discussion highlights deep themes of truth and loyalty within a royal family, revealing the painful impact of honesty in the face of flattery. This exploration sets the stage for inevitable conflict and heartbreak.

Jan 21, 2024 • 10min
King Lear | Episode 03 - Hereditary Ever
Exploring the intense dynamics of familial love, a powerful moment unfolds as an aging king seeks affection from his daughters. Goneril and Regan's duplicitous declarations starkly contrast with Cordelia's heartfelt honesty. This pivotal scene sets into motion a tragic unraveling of loyalty and betrayal, revealing the darker sides of ambition and greed. The discussion delves into themes of validation, love, and the consequences of deceit, all woven into Shakespeare's timeless narrative.

Jan 14, 2024 • 14min
King Lear | Episode 02 - Our Youngest Daughter's Love
In a dramatic opening, King Lear's shocking plan to divide his kingdom sets the stage for a tale of love and betrayal. The exploration of familial loyalty takes a dark turn as Lear tests his daughters' affections with public declarations. This pivotal moment reveals the chaos that unfolds and highlights the ironic twists of Lear's intentions. Themes of gender and inheritance further complicate the dynamics, making for a gripping analysis of Shakespeare's timeless tragedy.

Jan 7, 2024 • 15min
King Lear | Episode 01 - Is Not This Your Son?
Dive into the complex world of Shakespeare's tragic masterpiece, where parentage and legitimacy take center stage. Explore Gloucester's internal conflict about his illegitimate son, Edmund, sparking discussions on social status. Unpack the intricate language and themes that add depth to the play, laying the groundwork for future explorations. Join the conversation that intertwines humor with poignant moments as the narrative begins to unfold.

Jan 6, 2024 • 8min
New Year's Quiz - Answers
Here are the answers to the twenty questions. If you want to play along don't listen to this episode before the previous one!