Super Short Summary

Gertrude and Claudius by John Updike, is a prequel to Shakespeare's Hamlet, set in the Dark Ages. The novel, which uses evolving character names from medieval Danish tales, follows Gertrude and Claudius' illicit relationship that results in the murder of Claudius' brother, King Hamlet. The story ends where Shakespeare's play begins, shedding light on events that lead up to the tragedy. Topics of adultery and familial betrayal are present.