Justice Anthony M. Kennedy has been described by many — e.g., Jeffrey Rosen — as a Hamlet-like justice, who agonizes over every decision. And later this week — perhaps this was his therapist’s idea? — Justice Kennedy will preside over the trial of his dramatic alter ego.

From the NYT:

[Hamlet’s] criminal responsibility — whether he was sane at the time of [the] killing [of Polonius] — is the central question of “The Trial of Hamlet,” to be heard here on Thursday at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The mock trial is a Washington wonk’s dream, stacked with Shakespeare-loving luminaries. Justice Anthony M. Kennedy of the United States Supreme Court, an enthusiastic Shakespeare aficionado who conceived of the idea, will preside over the trial.

“What you realize is that you know Hamlet better than you know some real people, because he tells you exactly what he is thinking,” said Justice Kennedy in a telephone interview. “The trial provides a fascinating, oblique way in which to examine Hamlet, the legal process and the intellect of Shakespeare, who continues to speak to us in our own time.”

It should be a great event, especially if one goes by ticket sales. It sold out, got moved to a larger venue, and sold out again.

We’d love to attend; alas, it’s sold out. If you have an extra ticket that you’re looking to sell, please email us. Thanks!

Was Dane’s Madness Just Method? Jury to Decide [New York Times]
The Supreme Court Hears the Trial of Hamlet [Kennedy Center]