Historical Context

 

      Hamlet, the quintessential tragedy written by William Shakespeare in 1601, has been an admired subject of focused study for literary scholars since its’ inception.  Thus, understanding the historical context around the time of its’ publishing has helped audiences across centuries better appreciate the play.  Most notably, the English cultural golden-age, resulting from the Renaissance, helped fuel the prominence of this play.  

      Shakespeare’s literature is distinct from his contemporaries because unlike their writings, the main focus within his work is on human emotion and response to complicated, ambiguous, demanding situations.  England during the late 1590’s and early 1600’s, the height of Shakespeare’s involvement with writing, came directly after the end of the Reformation which was a period of history defined by widespread religious upheaval in Europe.  New religious models of thinking were established during this time by notables like Martin Luther and John Calvin, most involving repudiations of traditional Catholic institutions, especially indulgences.  Thus, a lot of emphasis was placed on religion, and much of this manifested itself in the artwork, literature, and other entertainments of English culture.  However, Shakespeare is different in that he was particularly affected by the Humanism movement, which was one of many byproducts of the Reformation.  Humanism was concerned with philosophical and ethical discussions about the values and actions of human beings. In other words, rational thinking and logic was emphasized over more traditional dogmatism and superstition.  

      Next, it is important to consider political shifts that resonated throughout England during this time.  Elizabeth I died childless so her cousin James VI of Scotland succeeded her 45 year reign as James I.  This interaction united the three separate kingdoms of Ireland, Scotland, and England under one ruler.  An end to a drawn out war with Spain was one of the first actions taken by James I, as well as efforts to establish a foundation in the Americas.  With regard to this, Jamestown was settled in 1607.