Supernatural Occurences in Hamlet Emily Baeza, Autumn Huff Period 5

Supernaturalism In his play, Hamlet, William Shakespeare quite often uses supernaturalism in order to create an atmosphere of mystery, horror, and suspense.

Why did Shakespeare use the supernatural so often? William Shakespeare lived throughout the Elizabethan Age, which was still heavily influenced by the English Renaissance. This influence brought about the idea that spirits, witches, faeries, and other entities truly existed. Shakespeare believed that all of these were real and felt as though they had influence on humans and their way of life.

Changing Atmosphere to Emphasize Tragedy “‘Pity me not, but lend thy serious hearing to what I shall unfold… I am thy father’s spirit, doomed for a certain term to walk the night…’” -Ghost, Act 1, scene 5

Atmosphere cont. In this act, the ghost first reveals itself to Hamlet and confesses that it is, in fact, his father. Now that Hamlet is in contact with his father’s spirit, he is conscious that his father is always with him and guiding him. While Hamlet believes this is a good sign, the interference of the ghost only leads to his tragedy.

Atmosphere cont. The appearance of the late king creates an atmosphere which is a forewarning that unnatural deeds are going to happen.

Supernaturalism in Macbeth Another example of Shakespeare’s use of supernatural elements is Macbeth. In this play, Shakespeare goes beyond using spirits and includes the witches, the prophetic apparitions, and the dagger that guides Macbeth. Each of these things are integral parts that create a catalyst for the progression of the play.

Moral Significance of the Ghost The Ghost symbolises that even the greatest earthly strength is still subject to spiritual influence. For example, despite being an all- powerful and untouchable being, the King cannot escape death and his fate no matter his status on the living plane. Death is not simply destined for the weak, it affects all beings.

Moral Significance cont. We cannot withhold a long held lie. While Hamlet condemns the deceit and lying occurring around him, he cannot help but exact his revenge by deceiving and lying himself. “‘O villain, villain, smiling damned villain! My tables. Meet it is I set it down that one may smile, and smile, and be a villain - at least I am sure it may be so in Denmark.’” -Hamlet, Act 1, scene 5

Religious Aspect The Ghost claims that he is from neither heaven nor hell but from purgatory. This may allude to Hamlet thinking that he can somehow free his father’s spirit from purgatory by exacting revenge on Claudius. “‘Revenge his foul and most unnatural murder!’” -Ghost, Act 1, scene 5

Religious Aspect cont. The religious aspect may also symbolize divine intervention, with the Ghost acting as a Devil character that leads Hamlet to commit a sin just as terrible as Claudius’ sin (murder) as an act of revenge. “‘Murder most foul, as in the best it is, but this most foul, strange and unnatural.’” -Ghost, Act 1, scene 5

Religious Aspect cont. The ghost speaks of its “Prison house” and of the fires of hell for his crimes in life which is so horrible that it is denied to mortal ears. Shakespeare combines classical and Catholic concepts with the popular superstitions of his age.

Conclusion Like in his other plays, Shakespeare uses supernatural elements in Hamlet to emphasize the powerful influence it could have on the characters in the story and how no one is immune to otherworldly forces.

Sources "The Symbolism of the Ghost in Hamlet." The Symbolism of the Ghost in Hamlet. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Oct. 2016. "There Are Three Ghost Appearances in "Hamlet". What Are They and How Do They Compare to Each Other? Analyze the Way the Ghost Talks and or Acts. | ENotes." Enotes.com. Enotes.com, n.d. Web. 17 Oct. 2016. "What Is the Ghost of King Hamlet's Purpose in the Play? Was He Ever There or Was He Just a Part of Hamlet's Inner Conscience? Where Are Some Good... | ENotes." Enotes.com. Enotes.com, n.d. Web. 17 Oct. 2016. Unknown. "Supernatural Elements in 'Hamlet'" Masters in English Language and Literature:. N.p., 1970. Web. 17 Oct. 2016. "Supernaturalism in Hamlet." Scribd. N.p., n.d. Web. 17 Oct. 2016.