Words, words, words...

In Hamlet, there are countless quotes which are memorable, perhaps because in these wise words, we see our lives that are not so different from that of Shakespeare. Choose one quote that especially moved you. Be sure to only choose from Act I through IV. Explain the quote and why you chose it. Your response should appear as a POST on YOUR BLOG not as a comment here. Then, check out your peers' responses and comment on at least one other post.

If you have questions about this assignment, you can leave it in the form of a comment below. To help you find some options, here is a link with many of the quotes we discussed. http://classiclit.about.com/od/hamlet/a/aa_hamlet.htm

And this Above All

We have all been given advice at one point in our lives. Most of the time it is given by our families, teachers, siblings, friends. In Act II, Polonius doles out lengthy advice to Laertes. From the list, which do you believe is the most valuable? Why?



What are some precepts or advice you have received? Did you follow it or find it valuable? Why or why not?

Respond by commenting on this post.

Welcome Bloggers New and Old!

Those of you who are just joining the wonderful world of blogging, here is something that will make you blogging life easier. When you are in "Dashboard", click on "Design", then "Add Gadget", then " Blog List".



Here, you will be able to type in the URL of any blog and the link will appear on your page. Add our blog ( no need for www) type in toblogornottoblogbhs.blogspot.com. Add your friends!

Below is the first 10 minutes of a famous 1964 Russian version of Hamlet with sub-titles. This film received some noteworthy international awards, and is especially praised for its cinematography. I know 1964 may seem ancient to you, and yes, it is, gasp, in black and white. Check it out and let me know what you think. What are some effective choices? Less effective?Shakespeare not only transcends time but also cultures!

I tried to upload the video, but blogger was not cooperating. Here is the link to Hamlet's scene with the ghost. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86SlZDfHBwk&feature=related.You can find other parts of the play on YouTube. Just don't peak ahead!

Something is rotten in the state of BHS!

By now you had the chance to view three film versions of Hamlet. Using your notes, decide which one is your favorite, the Ken Branagh, Franco Zefferelli, or Mike Almereyda version. Support your choice by discussing setting, tone, choice of actors, etc.

Then, find a classmate who has chosen a different version and comment on his/her post. The list of blogs will appear on the left. Share your feelings about the version you did not chose. Remember, you are writing the post on your blog, not as a comment to this post.