Women as Hamlet

Over the many years hundreds of women have played the role of Hamlet.  The role of women in Hamlet can be seen in many different shades, some from a pro feminist point of view, some a very mysoginist point of view, it depends upon the production, and the way one reads it.  However, it is fascinating that a role that originally seems to be only played by men is very often played by women, perhaps the most popular being Sarah Bernhardt.

Tony Howard has written a fascinating book on women portraying Hamlet.  His book Women as Hamlet is probably the best scholarly work out there in which one can read about women Hamlets. 

I have found this video in which Tony Howard speaks about the role of female performers of Hamlet:

Women Playing Hamlet - These bloopers are hilarious

Women in Hamlet

Frailty, thy name is woman
    This is a fascinating website with lots of photographs and very intriguing essays about the role of women, particularly Ophelia, in the play.

Hamlet's Thoughts About Women
    A great collection of quotes dealing with Hamlet's ideas on women.

Hamlet's Problems with Women 
   A fascinating essay on Hamlet's state of mind, sexuality, and identity.