William Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” is a priceless piece of English literature studied every year by seniors for English AP. Many believe “Hamlet” is a window into life, revenge, and humanity in general.

“It can teach a lesson or two in life,” senior Case Bierschenk said. “It can be helpful going down the road in the future.”

“Hamlet” shows the reader to never tip their hand and seize the moment. Prince Hamlet vacillates and overthinks, leading to missed opportunities. Additionally, it shows how to not live with regret like Claudius, who mourns a brother and king that he murdered. Still, Hamlet is the one that can be most learned from, especially with the different perspectives regarding his spiral into madness (whether it be real or a ploy).

“I like that the character has multiple different sides to himself and showcases them differently throughout the play,” Senior Bhavana Thota said.

Hamlet starts out as angry and naive then later grows frustrated and scornful. His vendetta takes many twists before he finally completes his goal, which only comes at a heavy price. The journey allows the reader to come to their own conclusions and thoughts of the main characters’ actions. This allows many to perceive the glamour of “Hamlet” and how much of a giant it is in the English language.

“I think Hamlet is one of Shakespeare’s best works,” senior Miles Schiller said. “Hamlet himself is an interesting character because of how he portrays insanity.”

Hamlet’s madness is shown through his discussion with the Ghost. The Ghost is Hamlet’s father, who either helps or uses Hamlet, depending on one’s point of view.

The students described how “Hamlet” is beautiful in the way it leaves details up to interpretation for analysis.

However, the piece is still hard to teach. Students have been reading the play for about six weeks and they are still only about halfway through. They use multiple theatrical and cinematic versions of the piece to supplement the work. Normally it helps them follow the action, seeing the different perspectives.

For example, there is a “Hamlet” movie based in the present day, but seniors also see more traditional sets in Elsinore Castle. With such a confusing play, at times the burden falls to the teacher to clarify the plot.

“I would say no because we got a great teacher here in Mrs. Balden who’s always here to help us out,” Bierschenk said.