What are the FT stories from the past yr which have really stuck within the minds of our journalists? The stories that challenged them, enlightened them, or just entertained them? From Christmas Day to January 6, we’ll be bringing you a each day story from the archives, chosen by senior FT writers and editors. Read them, enjoy them, then share them with family and friends, who may also read them free of charge just by registering with FT Edit.
On the primary day of Christmas . . .
The key history of the red book of Hamlet
Chosen by Cordelia Jenkins, editor of the FT Magazine
“That is the story of how a little bit red-bound volume of Shakespeare’s Hamlet was passed down through the generations, actor to actor, from one great Hamlet to the subsequent. It’s a mystery, but at its heart is an even bigger query in regards to the ephemeral nature of fame, and the way greatness is defined. The interviews with a few of the legends of British theatre are wonderful and the main points uncovered are fascinating.”
Read the complete story ➼
Come back tomorrow for Simon Kuper’s pick.
