The Big Picture

Sons of Anarchy may have centered around a fictional motorcycle club, but its roots can be traced back to the iconic work of William Shakespeare, Hamlet. The similarities between the two stories are striking, with both exploring themes of family dynamics, betrayal, and revenge. The complex nature of the protagonists, Jax and Hamlet, leads to tragic endings that blur the lines between good and bad.

Despite its contemporary setting, Sons of Anarchy delves into themes of toxic masculinity and the emergence of criminal factions due to the marginalization of certain social groups. Inspired by the real-life Hells Angels M.C., the series dramatizes an alleged true crime story. However, creator Kurt Sutter found inspiration in a much older source – 16th-century Shakespeare.

Hamlet, written between 1599 and 1601, is a tragedy set in the Danish court. The story revolves around a young prince seeking revenge for his father’s death. Upon his father’s sudden demise, the throne is usurped by his uncle, Claudius, who also marries the prince’s mother. Haunted by his father’s ghost, Hamlet pretends to be mad as he gathers evidence and plots his revenge.

The enduring impact of Hamlet is evident in the countless adaptations it has inspired, from The Lion King to The Northman. However, Sons of Anarchy stands out as a contemporary take that successfully captures the essence of Shakespeare’s play.

Sutter drew direct parallels between the two stories. Jax Teller, like Prince Hamlet, believes he is the rightful heir to the SAMCRO motorcycle club, but the position is taken by Clay, who marries Jax’s mother. The dynamics between Jax/Hamlet, Clay/Claudius, and Gemma/Gertrude become even more apparent when it is revealed that Jax’s father was murdered, just as Hamlet’s father was poisoned.

Sons of Anarchy also features its own version of the ghostly visitation experienced by Hamlet. Jax discovers his father’s manuscript, which reveals secrets about the motorcycle club and its leadership. Inspired by his father’s message, Jax embarks on a quest for revenge, pretending to be ignorant of the truth.

The similarities between the two works extend beyond the central family affair. Characters like Ophelia and Polonius find counterparts in Tara and Unser, while Chibs plays a trustworthy friend like Horatio. Both stories ultimately end in tragedy, with the protagonist’s choices leading to their demise.

Sutter’s choice to end Sons of Anarchy with a quote from Hamlet demonstrates his understanding of the play’s themes and his desire to leave the audience questioning. Jax, like Hamlet, is a complex character who can be seen as both a hero and a villain. The series aims to provoke discussion and reflection, mirroring the concerns raised in Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece.

In conclusion, Sons of Anarchy draws inspiration from the classic tragedy of Hamlet, expanding on its themes and characters in a contemporary context. Kurt Sutter’s understanding of Shakespeare’s work shines through in his masterful adaptation, leaving viewers with a thought-provoking tale.

 

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