The supernatural

Definition

The supernatural refers to phenomena or entities that exist beyond the natural world and cannot be explained by scientific understanding. This concept often includes ghosts, spirits, witches, and otherworldly beings that defy the laws of nature. In literature, the supernatural serves as a catalyst for conflict and intrigue, influencing characters' decisions and emotions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Shakespeare often used supernatural elements to explore themes of ambition, guilt, and fate, as seen in plays like 'Macbeth' and 'Hamlet.'
2. The presence of witches in 'Macbeth' symbolizes the corrupting power of ambition and foreshadows the tragic downfall of the main character.
3. Ghosts in Shakespeare's works, such as King Hamlet in 'Hamlet,' serve as important plot devices that drive characters to confront their moral dilemmas.
4. The supernatural often heightens tension and suspense in Shakespeare's plays, challenging the characters' perceptions of reality.
5. Shakespeare's use of supernatural elements reflects the beliefs and superstitions of Elizabethan society, showcasing how these ideas influenced cultural and literary narratives.

Review Questions

• How does Shakespeare utilize supernatural elements to develop themes in his plays?
  • Shakespeare incorporates supernatural elements to deepen thematic explorations such as ambition, guilt, and fate. For example, in 'Macbeth,' the prophecies of the witches drive Macbeth's ambition and lead to his ultimate downfall. Similarly, the ghost of King Hamlet in 'Hamlet' prompts Prince Hamlet to confront his own moral dilemmas. These supernatural aspects not only create intrigue but also emphasize the characters' internal struggles and their connections to larger existential themes.
• Discuss the role of witches in 'Macbeth' and their impact on the narrative structure.
  • The witches in 'Macbeth' play a pivotal role by introducing the theme of fate versus free will. Their prophecies set off a chain reaction that leads Macbeth to pursue power at all costs. The witches embody evil and manipulation, influencing both Macbeth and Lady Macbeth's actions. Their presence creates an atmosphere of foreboding and tension throughout the play, shaping its narrative trajectory by illustrating how external forces can corrupt human intentions.
• Evaluate how Shakespeare’s portrayal of the supernatural reflects the cultural beliefs of Elizabethan society.
  • Shakespeare’s depiction of the supernatural is deeply intertwined with the cultural beliefs of Elizabethan society, which was rife with superstitions about witchcraft, ghosts, and divine intervention. His works reflect a society that grappled with moral uncertainty and the unknown, often using supernatural elements to explore human psychology and ethical dilemmas. This portrayal not only captivates audiences but also serves as commentary on contemporary fears surrounding moral decay and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Ultimately, Shakespeare's integration of the supernatural elevates his exploration of timeless human issues within a culturally relevant framework.

Related terms

Gothic Literature: A genre characterized by elements of horror, the supernatural, and a dark, mysterious atmosphere, often involving haunted settings.

Magic Realism: A literary style that introduces fantastical elements into otherwise realistic settings, blending the ordinary with the extraordinary.

Symbolism:

A literary device where symbols are used to represent ideas or qualities, often conveying deeper meanings related to the supernatural.