History - The Globe Theatre

The Globe is known to be a theatre in which Shakespeare's plays were performed. Records reveal it was burnt down in 1613 when a canon was used in a performance of Henry VIII. A second Globe was soon built and continued to stand until 1642 when a puritan revolution saw all theatres in London demolished. 

Discussion

1. Examine the above picture. Consider how Hamlet may have been staged bearing in mind that props and sets were very minimal. It's estimated that 2500-3000 rowdy people could attend a performance which were held in the daylight hours of two and five o'clock. How might this have affected a performance? Compare this to USQ's Shakespeare in Queens Park. What elements of the performance would be different? Alike? 
         
2. Watch a film version of Hamlet. How does the medium of film change the way in which the play is recognised.  What are advantages and disadvantages of both film and live performance Shakespeare? Which do you personally prefer? Versions of Hamlet include:
        
   Zeffirelli, F. (1991) – Hamlet, featuring Mel Gibson
   Almereyda, M. (2000) – Hamlet, featuring Ethan Hawke
   Olivier, L. (1948) – Hamlet, featuring Laurence Olivier
   Brannagh, K (1996) – Hamlet, featuring Kenneth Brannagh