Episode Six of Lit Matters dives into the “undiscovered country” that is Hamlet as Chris chats with Ken Parker, a Professor of English at Orange Coast College, and “a fellow of infinite jest, of most excellent fancy.” Chris and Ken continue a conversation about Shakespeare’s masterpiece that has been ongoing for decades, along with a discussion of music, inspiring teachers, and tiny trains. This episode is a “knavish piece of work,” and so much fun.
If you are looking for other incredible stories influenced by or adapted from Hamlet, check out:
Maggie O’Farrell’s 2020 National Book Award Winning novel, Hamnet
Tom Stoppard’s hilarious Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead
David Wroblewski’s Edgar Sawtelle
The Dead Father’s Club by Matt Haig
John Updike’s Gertrude and Claudius