AS and A Level: English Literature: Drama: Pre-1770: Shakespeare: Hamlet Coursework

"This is a very useful essay and explores many ideas I otherwise would not have considered, however, I believe the author has only looked at Claudius from the view of the 'damed smiling villain'. While Claudius does manipulate the court and to some extent, the audience. Looking at his first speech, with the regular flow and well executed literary devices gives the impression that this speech has been rehearsed, especially when comparing Claudius's less pristine conversation with Hamlet later in the scene. This suggests that beneath Claudius's charismatic and manipulating exterior is the uncertainty of his authority as king and the response of his subject, and perhaps guilt. This ties in with the theme of appearances and reality. "

"A very tight essay. It's well thought out, the structure is sharp and on form, the argument is constructed through one long, coherent narrative. You use quotations very well to support your points and keep going back to your original argument. It's coherent, concise and cogent, and a true pleasure to read. Well done! TSR User: chidona"

"Excellent essay! It's concise, coherent and sticks to the question at hand. You use quotation well, and while the structure may be fairly repetitive, it's a useful vector for communicating your ideas. I like your argument too, although I have to say that I personally never really found Hamlet all that naive during my studies - this essay has sure cast the character in a different light and I thank you for submitting it! Oh yes, early on you write 'main player', when I think you're searching for 'lead actor'. Great job! TSR User: chidona"

"Excellent essay, however there is a problem: You haven't posted the question! Still, you clearly understand the source material well, and have a good knowledge of how to structure your arguments and back them up with evidence, so I'll assume you stuck to whatever the question asked. The accusation that Hamlet has split personalities is an intriguing one, and you argue it with conviction. I'm less convinced, however, of your claim that Hamlet is a coward - even more so that he is a natural coward, as you claim in your concluding statements. You don't seem to be able to back that claim up with any hard evidence, and I feel it hurts the essay and would suggest you drop it. However, it is a minor gripe - I really enjoyed reading this essay and wish you all the best with it. TSR User : chidona"

"I don't really think this is of a very high quality at all."