Mark and Durga continue their conversation about the two main female influences on Hamlet, this time focusing on the character of Ophelia. This session discusses the 'passivity' of Ophelia; Hamlet's treatment of Ophelia; the role of Ophelia's brother and father in controlling her behaviour; and a comparison of Ophelia with other Shakespearean heroines.

Mark and Durga introduce and comment on Hamlet's place in world literature as one of the most complex plays ever written; the role of the ghost and the theme of revenge; Gertrude's character: 'seeming virtuous' Queen, or pragmatic woman of the world?

Geoffrey Chaucer's depiction of female characters: their view on their role in life, and their view of love.

Mark and Durga introduce and comment on the Wife of Bath's Tale; the tale as a comedy of manners and the woman's struggle for power in the battle of the sexes.