Changing Masks

a comic reinterpretation of Shakespeare's Hamlet in light of the comic elements described by Henri Bergson

Abstract

This article explores the comic procedures in the construction of a solo show, narrated by Horatio, based on the play “Hamlet,” in light of Henri Bergson's theories. In his work “Laughter: An Essay on the Meaning of the Comic,” the philosopher offers an analysis of the mechanisms of humor and its relationship to the human condition. Although his work does not focus directly on theater, his ideas are applicable to understanding comedy in theatrical contexts, especially in William Shakespeare's “Hamlet.” The development of the scenes highlights elements such as role reversal, exaggeration, and contradiction, showing how these comic aspects are used to transform tragedy into comedy, enriching the narrative and characterization of the characters. The application of Bergson's theories to the study of Hamlet reveals the intersection between laughter and tragedy, demonstrating how humor can be a powerful tool in the construction of complex and multifaceted narratives.