How Stalin Canceled ‘Hamlet’ in the Soviet Union—and What It Can Teach Us about Cancel Culture

Mass fear can result in censorship that is just as stifling and oppressive as government bans, history shows

(L) An undated picture shows Vladimir Ilyich Ulianov (1870–1924), better known as Lenin (L) posing in Gorki, Soviet Union, with Iossif Vissarionovitch Dzhugashvili (1879–1953) better known as Joseph Stalin, who became secretary-general of the Soviet communist party in 1922. (-AFP via Getty Images). (R) Portrait of British actor John Gielgud (1904–2000) posing in costume for his lead role in "Hamlet." Hulton Archive/Getty Images

William Shakespeare’s play “Hamlet” is considered by some to be the single greatest story ever written.

“Hamlet” has it all: ghosts, sword fights, suicide, revenge, lust, murder, philosophy, faith, manipulation, and a climactic bloodbath worthy of a Tarantino film. It’s a masterpiece of both high art and sensationalism, the only play I’ve seen performed live three times.