Modern Adaptations of Shakespeare’s character "Ophelia"

Résumé ou Introduction

This paper examines how Shakespeare’s character Ophelia changes in modern adaptations.

Less than three years ago, April 2016, people all around the world celebrated Shakespeare’s works on the 400th anniversary of his death, as his reach is still extensive. Shakespeare’s most cited work have been well received, especially the play "Hamlet". The result of his success culminated into countless reinterpretations and adaptations of the play itself and in particular its characters.

Hamlet is not only staged in theatres, but the figures of the Danish court also appear in cinemas, novels, paintings and even pop songs. Although the tragic prince may be the protagonist of the play, creators and artists are also particularly fascinated by a minor character, Ophelia, who became the most represented figure in the 19th century and is still reinterpreted today.

The graceful beauty perishes at the helm of the power struggles within the Danish court. Ophelia has been immortalized by countless painters and poets, and was analyzed from different angles in films and novels. But is that still Shakespeare’s Ophelia? Because her character has been adapted again and again, is the original source still visible? If someone adapts Ophelia’s story today, are they really talking about Shakespeare’s character or are they just quoting an image of her?