Comment on Shakespeare’s treatment of the supernatural elements in ‘Hamlet’

Answer

Comment on Shakespeare’s treatment of the supernatural elements in “Hamlet.” [2020]

William Shakespeare’s (1564–1616) masterpiece “Hamlet” starts with the appearance of the ghost of King Hamlet at Elsinore Castle. In this play, the supernatural element plays a major role. But unlike many other Elizabethan plays, Shakespeare uses the ghost not for horror or fear, but to create mystery, doubt, and moral confusion. This supernatural presence leads Hamlet on a journey of doubt, fear, pain, and revenge.

The Appearance of the Ghost: The play begins with the appearance of the ghost at Elsinore Castle at night. The guards see the ghost. One of the guards, Marcellus, and Hamlet’s friend, Horatio, also see the ghost. The ghost looks like the dead king, King Hamlet, wearing his war armor. This opening scene immediately creates suspense and prepares the audience for tragedy. Marcellus suspects that something terrible must be happening in the state because the ghost of the dead king has returned to haunt the land. He says:

“Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.”

So, Shakespeare uses this supernatural scene to immediately create mystery and suspense in the play.

The Ghost Demands Revenge: When Hamlet himself meets the ghost, the supernatural becomes the turning point of the story. The ghost speaks and tells Hamlet he was murdered by his own brother, Claudius, who has now taken the throne. The ghost says:

“The serpent that did sting thy father’s life now wears his crown.”

The ghost demands revenge. This gives birth to the entire plot of revenge. Without the ghost, there would be no action, no conflict, and no tragedy. From this moment, Hamlet’s main purpose in the play becomes to find justice for his father’s murder.

Hamlet’s Doubts and Indecision: However, “Hamlet” is not a conventional revenge tragedy. Instead of quick revenge, Shakespeare focuses on the mind of Hamlet. The ghost of King Hamlet only begins a long journey of doubt in Hamlet’s mind. He is confused about