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Strolers Performing Hamlet Before the Squire

St. George drew the fictional “Squire Richard Dunderhead” asleep during a production of Shakespeare’s Hamlet to satirize aloof elderly gentlemen who lacked passion. The term “strolers” refers to itinerant actors. In the background, the actors appear to be performing the duel between Hamlet and Laertes from the final act of the play.

Strolers Performing Hamlet Before the Squire 
Drawn by Richard Mansergh St. George; Published by Matthew and Mary Darly
April 18, 1772
Etching
Courtesy of The Lewis Walpole Library, Yale University