Maggie O’Farrell’s novel, *Hamnet*, delves into the hidden influences behind William Shakespeare’s iconic play, *Hamlet*. The author strategically avoids direct references to Shakespeare to reveal the intricacies of his family life. The story centers on the death of Hamnet, Shakespeare’s son, during a plague, suggesting a deep connection between this tragedy and the creation of *Hamlet*. This idea stems from the interchangeable names of Hamnet and Hamlet around the 17th century.
Adapting *Hamnet* for Film
The upcoming film adaptation of *Hamnet* expands on the portrayal of Shakespeare, embracing his work. Co-written by O’Farrell and director Chloé Zhao, the screenplay includes significant passages from *Hamlet*, featuring the renowned “To be, or not to be” soliloquy.
- The character William, played by Paul Mescal, recites the soliloquy while grappling with loss.
- Agnes, portrayed by Jessie Buckley, witnesses an actor deliver the same lines during a production of *Hamlet*, which helps her process her grief.
Exploring Themes of Grief
These two scenes redefine the soliloquy as a dialogue between William and Agnes. They illustrate how the couple navigates their grief, showcasing their differing ways of coping. Agnes’s sorrow transforms into rage, while William channels his emotions into his writing.
Zhao considered the impact of including such a well-known speech. Balancing the film’s emotional tone was crucial. Mescal’s belief in the necessity of the soliloquy ultimately persuaded Zhao to incorporate it.
Interpretations of the Soliloquy
Historically, the “To be, or not to be” soliloquy poses a challenge for filmmakers. It often overshadows the emotional depth intended in the text, risking superficiality in performance. Various adaptations have presented this iconic passage with diverse interpretations:
- Laurence Olivier’s 1948 film highlights Hamlet’s internal struggle through visual storytelling.
- Kenneth Branagh’s 1996 version uses a two-way mirror to convey Hamlet’s turmoil and challenge societal norms.
- In Vishal Bhardwaj’s *Haider*, the soliloquy is repurposed as a political statement, reflecting contemporary issues.
Hamnet’s Unique Perspective
The film adaptation of *Hamnet* presents the soliloquy in a novel light. It separates the words from *Hamlet*, allowing them to stand alone while connecting them back to the play. William’s private moment of grief contrasts with Agnes’s public experience, creating a narrative arc that resonates deeply.
Through this structure, the film reflects on the act of creation itself. Zhao emphasizes that the thematic meditation on loss within the soliloquy transcends intellectualism, rooting itself in the profound emotional experiences of life and death.
As audiences engage with this new interpretation, *Hamnet* encourages reflection on the universal aspects of grief and creativity. The film bridges Shakespeare’s historical context with contemporary sentiments, demonstrating the lasting relevance of his work.
