Benedict Cumberbatch shares Hamlet insights with A level students

Upper School library was the only place “to be” for KAS Sixth Formers recently, where they had the opportunity to quiz actor Benedict Cumberbatch on his portrayal of one of Shakespeare’s most iconic roles – Hamlet.

The Olivier Award winner took questions from A level English students ranging from which production of the play he most admires, whether Hamlet really loves Ophelia, and whether he would do things differently if he were to take on the role again. Cumberbatch played the titular character in Lyndsey Turner’s 2015 production at The Barbican.

On the latter question, he told students: “I’d want something quieter – more intimate. I’d want everyone to see the thought dripping into his eyes; an embodiment of it that’s more personal.

“I’d also want to get the relationship with Ophelia right. Was he in love with her? Is it a fling? Is he so lost in his thoughts that he idealises the relationship until the moment it becomes real?”

The Sherlock star also spoke affectionately of a “wonderful” teacher from his childhood who “opened up language for me and helped me try to make sense of Elizabethan prose.”

Organised by KAS English teacher Carey Johnstone, the Q&A was devised to develop students’ critical thinking skills as part of their A level studies.

“Hamlet is a core text in A level English,” explained department co-head Zoe Rawlings. “Students get marks in the exam for showing that they understand there can be different interpretations of the play, and that it’s meant to be acted – it’s not just a static script.

“To be able to say, ‘As Benedict Cumberbatch has said…’ or, ‘As his 2015 production at The Barbican portrayed…’ in their arguments is incredibly useful.”

“It’s so helpful to get a critical perspective from someone who has played the part”

Students compiled their questions in advance, and they were put to the actor by Year 13s Ana G and Lois L.

“It’s so helpful to get a critical perspective from someone who has played the part,” Lois shared afterwards. “We have to discuss interpretations in our essays, so it was interesting to hear how he understood the language.”

Ana added: “He asked us questions, too. He was very nice and clearly respected our opinion, which made it feel more like a conversation.”

The session provided students with plenty of food for thought, whilst Benedict left with a humorous thank-you gift: a pack of Shakespearean profanities.

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