I would like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to direct the upcoming presentation of Hamlet. Act II of Hamlet is rather long, and may be tedious for the viewing of a live audience. Because of this, I would like to suggest several scenes and lines from Act II that [could] be eliminated. This will further enhance the theatrical experience of our viewers without taking away from the storyÃÂs development.
The act begins with Polonius sending Reynaldo to France to spy on his son, Laertes, and then Ophelia enters to report to Polonius about HamletÃÂs crazy behavior. Polonius assumes that Hamlet has gone mad due to OpheliaÃÂs rejection. I believe this scene [could] be significantly cut short to display only PoloniusÃÂs advice on how to inquire about Laertes, and the fact that Hamlet has been acting crazy.
Polonius gives Reynaldo specific pointers when making inquires about Laertes. This helps to develop the theme of reality versus appearance, which is shown throughout the play.
David Garrick in Hamlet, I, 4
A stain glass window representation of Polonius.
"Ophelia and Laertes" by William Gorman Wills, Oil...Polonius is teaching Reynaldo how to use words to hide the true meaning behind his questions. He is doing this to ensure that his son maintains a virtuous image, even if he is engaging in fights, attending parties and chasing girls. However, [Polonius] does not wish for Reynaldo to create any scandals of Laertes or make him appear immoral though these inquiries. This is why I believe lines 1-52 should be kept, as they are sufficient to show the audience the theme, and a major plot development.
Lines 52-71, as I believe, may be eliminated from the play. It is continuous rambling from Polonius, and unnecessary for the production. Polonius is just [providing further advice] to Reynaldo, and it is not necessary, as it will become repetitive to the audience. Lines 53-55 only depict Polonius...