Some Remarks on the Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, Written by Mr. William Shakespeare (1736)

Key themes

18th-Century Shakespearean Criticism

This is the overarching theme of the 'Remarks' itself. It explores how Shakespeare was perceived and analyzed in the early 18th century, revealing the critical standards, aesthetic preferences, and intellectual debates of the time. The commentary exemplifies the tension between admiration for Shakespeare's 'natural genius' and the desire to 'correct' his perceived irregularities according to neoclassical rules.

The Problem of Anachronism in Interpretation

The commentary inherently grapples with the challenge of interpreting a work from a different historical and cultural context. The author applies 18th-century rationalist and neoclassical standards to a 16th/17th-century Elizabethan play, leading to criticisms that highlight the difference in aesthetic values rather than inherent flaws in Shakespeare. This theme explores the difficulties and pitfalls of judging past art by present standards.

Moral Didacticism in Drama

A prominent aspect of 18th-century criticism was the belief that art should serve a moral purpose, instructing as well as delighting. The 'Remarks' likely evaluates 'Hamlet' not just on its dramatic merits but also on its ethical message and how effectively it conveys lessons about human conduct, vice, and virtue. The author would examine whether the play's events and character fates align with a clear sense of justice and moral order.

Worth discussing

How do the 'Remarks' reflect the general critical approach to literature in the 18th century? What were the dominant literary values?