Gertrude And Claudius

Using details of the ancient Scandinavian legends that were the inspiration for Hamlet, John Updike brings to life Gertrudes girlhood as the daughter of King Rorik, her arranged marriage to the man who becomes King Hamlet, and her middle-aged affair with her husbands younger brother. As only he could, Updike recasts a tale of medieval violence and presents the case for its central couple that Shakespeare only hinted at. Gertrudes warmth and lucidity, Claudiuss soldierly yet peaceable powers of command are seen afresh against a background of fond intentions and familial dysfunction, on a stage darkened by the ominous shadow of a sullen, disaffected prince.