Chloe Zhao & Maggie O'Farrell talk Hamnet + Ed Norton on A Complete Unknown

The novel is set in Warwickshire in the late 16th century and revolves around the life of Agnes, the wife of William Shakespeare, and their children. It fictionalizes the events surrounding the death of their son Hamnet, who died of the plague in 1596 at the age of eleven. The story delves into the grief and emotional turmoil faced by the family, especially Agnes, and how this tragedy influenced Shakespeare's writing, including his play 'Hamlet'. The narrative alternates between different timelines, exploring Agnes's early life, her marriage, and the years following Hamnet's death. The book is a poignant study of motherhood, childhood, and the depths of grief, offering a vivid portrayal of family life during the Tudor period.

In 'Shakespeare's Wife', Germaine Greer challenges conventional narratives about Anne Hathaway, William Shakespeare's wife. Greer argues against the historical vilification of Anne as an illiterate shrew, instead portraying her as an intelligent and capable woman. The book delves into the social and economic realities of 16th-century England, examining the roles and expectations of women during that time. Greer reconstructs Anne's life using available historical records, presenting a more nuanced and sympathetic understanding of her. The biography aims to restore Anne Hathaway's reputation and acknowledge her contributions to Shakespeare's life and legacy. Ultimately, 'Shakespeare's Wife' is a feminist reinterpretation of history, seeking to give a voice to a woman who has been historically misrepresented.