Horatio's Version

Following the events of Hamlet, Horatio grapples with his duty to recount the truth in Horatio's Version, facing unexpected challenges along the way.

What transpires following the conclusion of Horatio's Version, when the four bodies have been removed? This narrative explores how Horatio fulfills the Prince's last request to 'tell my story.' The story unfolds through a Court of Enquiry led by Voltimand, interspersed with Horatio's personal diary entries. As the sole witness privy to the truth, Horatio hopes to illuminate the events by focusing solely on the essentials, deliberately excluding the women, the journey to England, and the Ghost he vowed never to mention to anyone alive. However, he quickly encounters substantial opposition in his quest for clarity.

In Horatio's Version, Alethea Hayter skillfully weaves a tale that invites readers to reconsider the implications of the original play. Horatio's struggle to navigate the complexities of truth and memory becomes a compelling exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the weight of history. The alternating perspectives of the Court proceedings and Horatio's reflections create a rich tapestry that deepens the reader's understanding of the characters and their motivations.

This imaginative reconstruction not only captivates the audience but also prompts a desire to revisit Shakespeare's work. Hayter's narrative brilliance and attention to detail breathe new life into the familiar story, making Horatio's Version a thought-provoking addition to the canon of literature inspired by the Bard.