Shakespeare is one of the most influential playwrights in history. But no one is safe from a few jokes when Google Translate and YouTube team up. A recent YouTube video puts the poetic words of Hamlet to the test using Google Translate as the medium. Fans of Shakespeare surely see the humor of two completely opposite eras in English collide for one hilarious Hamlet rendition. Is mocking Shakespeare even acceptable?
Hamlet by Shakespeare Using Google Translate
The YouTube video combines the original Hamlet lines with the Google Translate rendition with a stage performer reciting. Google Translate’s version is a bit more scientific and modern, but somewhat incomprehensible. But those not versed in Shakespeare or the language of his time period may feel that the new version is less cryptic. Leave it to YouTube to expose the lighter side of theatre for those looking for a few minutes of odd humor and a share worthy YouTube video to their Facebook pages.
Maybe YouTube Version is Better
The Google translation platform has been widely used for comedic relief in the past. Sometimes the service makes translations way outside the box, but it has improved in recent years. Others have tried to put Google Translate to use in other capacities as well. One user pondered what it would be like if there were a Ned Flanders translation among the list of languages. Ned Flanders, a spunky Simpson’s character is known for his odd choice of words. But a Flanders inspired translation is actually pretty hilarious.
What Would Shakespeare Think?
The life of William Shakespeare is sort of a mystery. His origins and life can only be painted via court and church documents. His dedication as a dramatist may have led him to a life of serious seclusion. But it is hard to imagine that he had no sense of humor. As an artist of words and theatre, it is possible that Shakespeare would find the YouTube video of Hamlet by Google Translate amusing. If he were alive today, what would he say? Would a media scandal and lawsuits arise from the quirky Hamlet version?
