Hamlet Play History: Shakespeare's Hamlet and the Chamberlain's Men

The Play History of Hamlet

The first recorded production of Hamlet was by the Chamberlain's Men in 1600 or 1601, so it is likely that Shakespeare composed the play in early 1600. According to contemporary references, Hamlet became an instant hit, and the great Shakespearean actor, Richard Burbage, received much acclaim in the lead role. Hamlet's popularity grew steadily until the closing of the theatres by the puritanical government (1642-1660). During that time it was performed as an abridged playlet at taverns and inns, along with all the other great dramas that suffered at the hands of Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector of England. After the theatres re-opened, Hamlet was brought back to the stage by author and entrepreneur, William Davenant, and the play's popularity has been constant ever since.

How to cite this article:
Mabillard, Amanda. The Play History of Hamlet. Shakespeare Online. 20 Aug. 2000. < http://www.shakespeare-online.com/playanalysis/hamletplayhistory.html > .

______________

More Resources

Daily Life in Shakespeare's London

Life in Stratford (structures and guilds)

Life in Stratford (trades, laws, furniture, hygiene)

Stratford School Days: What Did Shakespeare Read?

Games in Shakespeare's England [A-L]

Games in Shakespeare's England [M-Z]

An Elizabethan Christmas

Clothing in Elizabethan England

Queen Elizabeth: Shakespeare's Patron

King James I of England: Shakespeare's Patron

The Earl of Southampton: Shakespeare's Patron

Going to a Play in Elizabethan London

Ben Jonson and the Decline of the Drama

Publishing in Elizabethan England

Shakespeare's Audience

Religion in Shakespeare's England

Alchemy and Astrology in Shakespeare's Day

Entertainment in Elizabethan England

London's First Public Playhouse

Shakespeare Hits the Big Time

Did You Know?

In 1603, Queen Elizabeth I died and James the VI of Scotland became the new monarch, King James I of England. James loved the arts and was very generous to actors, playwrights, and other performers of the day. In particular, James I loved the theatre, and was captivated by Shakespeare's acting troupe, the Chamberlain's Men. Within ten days of arriving in London, James insisted that Shakespeare's troupe come under his own patronage. They were granted a Royal Patent and changed their name to the King's Men, in honour of James. Read on...