A review by bioarla
Nutshell by Ian McEwan

3.0

McEwan here re-writes the tragedy of Hamlet in a new light, with the main character portrayed in an unusual, innovative fashion. The modern Hamlet is physically confined in a “nutshell”, and extremely limited in his actions – though the biggest one will ultimately lead to his uncle’s demise like in the original tragedy. Similar to the Shakespearian prince, the main character is often pensive and a bit verbose, but McEwan also gives him a sharp tongue (and love & great knowledge of wines). Thus the hate for Claude/Claudius is often accompanied by witty, sarcastic remarks on his stupidity and inadequacy, which give the prose a lighter tone. Initially I was a bit worried/sceptical about this story (high school did not make me love Hamlet), but by the time I reached the end I was already missing our modern prince.