Gertrude and Claudius

Interesting Facts

• The book is a prequel to the famous play by William Shakespeare, «Hamlet», and explores events that preceded the actions in the play.
• The work focuses on the relationship between Gertrude and Claudius, revealing their inner motives and feelings, adding depth to their characters known from «Hamlet».
• John Updike used various sources, including medieval legends and earlier versions of the Hamlet story, to create a richer context for his characters.
• The book explores themes of love, betrayal, and power, offering a new perspective on the classic story known from Shakespeare's play.
• Updike pays special attention to character development, especially Gertrude, portraying her as a complex and multifaceted personality, rather than just Hamlet's mother.