ABSTRACT

This chapter focuses on dramatic literature and theatrical performance of Shakespearian play. Hamlet's address to the ghost is justly esteemed one of those situations in which the actor of merit may display, to the full, his greatest abilities. Mr. Macklin, whose judgement merits the utmost deference, differs in his opinion, respecting the behaviour of Hamlet to the Ghost, from Betterton and Garrick. Colley Cibber, when in company with Mr. Addison at the tragedy of Hamlet, tells us, that they were both surprised at the vociferous manner in which Wilks spoke to the Ghost. The constant practice of the stage, from the revival of Hamlet, soon after the Restoration, may perhaps contribute to justify my opinion of this character. Polonius was always acted by what is termed a low comedian: By Lovell, Nokes, and Cross, in former times; who were succeeded by Griffin, Hippisley, Taswell, and Shuter; and these again by Wilson, Baddeley, and Edwin, in the present times.