Arts & Culture
The Dramatic Function of the Aside in Shakespearean Theatre and Its Modern Uses
Quick fact
In Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' the prince's aside 'A little more than kin, and less than kind!' (Act 1, Scene 2) is the first time he shares his true feelings with the audience, instantly forging a secret bond between them.
Why this is interesting
Have you ever watched a play and felt like a character is secretly confiding in you? In Shakespeare’s time, this wasn't just a feeling—it was a clever theatrical tool called an aside, and it still shapes how we watch TV and movies today.