1. Hamilton analysis (contextual)
Hamilton the musical was set in 1755 in and
around Manhattan New York. It was written
and directed by Lin Manuel Miranda who
also stated as the lead of Alexander
Hamilton in the original Broadway
production. He took inspiration from the book
about Hamilton’s life written by Ron
Chernow and incorporated a lot of it into the
production.
To help support that this modernised musical was set in the 1750’s, the set plays a
huge part. The colours are very neutral and dark which builds on the fact that back
then it was limited on things to decorate such as coloured paint ad wallpaper. As well
as this, the set as a whole is very minimal, and the ensemble bring things on such as
chairs, but they do not stay on the stage. This is similar to our piece “my shot’
because the set starts of empty, by as an ensemble we bring on a chair each, only
leaving one chair in until the end of the performance.
All of the main characters in the musical are important historical figures that all ar
significant to Hamilton’s life. These historical figures play a huge part in telling the
story of his life, including the part where Burr shoots him in the stomach, causing his
death. This can be seen in the scene “The World Was Wide Enough” where Burr and
Hamilton and duelling, and Burr shoots him. As well as this we can understand that
these figures were significant to Hamiltons life because Eliza (his wife) comes onto
the stage, showing that that is an important person to him, and is going to miss him.
In the song “Non-Stop” Burr and Hamilton discuss finishing their studies in New
York, and practising Law. With this, the deliberate not defending their client Levi
weeks because he is innocent but then get into a heated discussion about why
Hamilton feels like he is “running out of time”. Angelica then proposes to Hamilton
that she is going off to London, and that he should not forget to write to her.
However, Eliza tries to convince Hamilton that he is in a good place, and that he
should stay not only because of what he has achieved, but for her too even though
she feels helpless. The sisters then agree that Hamilton will never be satisfied or
understand that he should be grateful for what he has. However, Hamilton puts his
foot down and exclaims that he is not throwing away the opportunity that he has.
The musical is a modern approach to the historical lives and events in attempt to
educate people on the occasions. It is a mix of singing, dancing and acting which
helps keep it interesting and different. The songs include rap and pop songs which is
contrasting with the serious topics. This helps to elevate the idea that these were
crucial parts of the Revolutionary War in America and the part these people played
towards this.
