Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead review:5 stars (Bitingly funny, fun for scholars and nonscholars alike) - This is a hilarious second take on the action in Shakespeare's Hamlet, from the point of view of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, the two unsavory nobles who think they are escorting Hamlet to his death via a distant king.

In this play, the two titular characters are fleshed out to be absurdly, and comically, inept in some ways, and very human and sympathetic in others. They play at deep thought, and this play is meant to lead the audience into musings that aren't necessarily articulated on the stage.

The humor is very off the wall, reminiscent of both Waiting for Godot, to which its often compared, and certain parts of Douglas Adams' "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" trilogy.

The showdown between logic and the absurd is always, thankfully, entertaining, and this is as much fun to read as it is to see on stage. In fact, it might be a better read than it is a play, as the slow, thoughtful pace may give some audiences too much time for checking their watches.
5 stars (a review) - After reading the reviews of R&G, I find that many of them bear a slight resemblance: This play is about two minor characters in Hamlet who appear in the spotlight of this existentialist blah blah blah

To summarize, the reasons to read this play are numerous. Whether you're looking for a short book for a book report due tomorrow, a humorous read, or a philosophic study, this has you covered.

You can analyze the existentialist implications until your brain hurts, or just enjoy it for its "Laurel and Hardy" comedy.4 stars (it's a winner) - This play nearly comes from the same place as "Waiting for Godot." It's absolutely deliciously absurd and tragically funny.

However, unlike "Godot," the characters of "R & G" are more given to emotional outbursts, especially Guildenstern. "Godot" is more abstract, an examination wtih a sense of detachment. "R & G" is tinged with both a sense of bitterness and acceptance, nicely showcased by the two characters.

"R & G" also does an incredibly good job at wordplay, paying homage to the "Hamlet" of Shakespeare.

All in all, it's a great book, and Guildenstern has some very memorable lines.
Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead Features:
Author: Tom Stoppard
English, Irish, Scottish, Welsh
Plays
Plays / Drama

Rosencrantz - Guildenstern Are Dead is the Paperback version. The full version can be purchased by clicking on the "CLICK HERE TO ORDER" button below for around 9.00USD.