Supernatural beings

Definition

Supernatural beings are entities that exist beyond the natural world and are often associated with myth, religion, and folklore. These beings can include gods, goddesses, spirits, and mythical creatures that possess powers beyond human comprehension. In the context of literary works, particularly those of Shakespeare, these beings often play crucial roles in shaping the narrative and influencing human characters.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Shakespeare frequently incorporates supernatural beings in his plays, such as the witches in 'Macbeth' who symbolize fate and ambition.
2. These beings often act as catalysts for action, pushing characters towards their destinies or moral dilemmas.
3. In 'A Midsummer Night's Dream', fairies manipulate the lives and emotions of human characters, highlighting themes of love and illusion.
4. The presence of supernatural beings often reflects the human struggle between free will and predetermined fate in Shakespeare's works.
5. Supernatural elements serve to enhance the emotional and thematic complexity of Shakespeare's narratives, engaging audiences in deeper questions about reality and existence.

Review Questions

• How do supernatural beings function as catalysts for character development in Shakespeare's plays?
  • In Shakespeare's plays, supernatural beings like the witches in 'Macbeth' or the fairies in 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' serve as key catalysts that propel characters into action or force them to confront their inner conflicts. For example, the witches' prophecies spark Macbeth's ambition, leading him down a path of moral decay. This interaction illustrates how these beings influence human decisions and transformations.
• Analyze how the portrayal of supernatural beings in Shakespeare's works reflects contemporary beliefs about fate and free will.
  • Shakespeare's portrayal of supernatural beings reveals the tension between fate and free will prevalent during his time. The witches in 'Macbeth' suggest that characters are bound by prophecy, implying that their fates are predetermined. However, characters still exercise their free will, making choices that lead to their ultimate downfalls or successes. This duality engages audiences in questioning whether their lives are controlled by external forces or if they hold agency over their destinies.
• Evaluate the impact of supernatural beings on thematic development within Shakespeare’s plays and their relevance to modern audiences.
  • Supernatural beings significantly impact thematic development in Shakespeare’s plays by addressing universal questions about existence, morality, and human nature. In plays like 'Hamlet', the appearance of ghosts prompts contemplation of mortality and justice. These themes resonate with modern audiences as they grapple with similar existential concerns. The exploration of such timeless issues through supernatural elements invites reflection on how these narratives continue to shape our understanding of reality today.

Related terms

Mythology: A collection of myths, especially one belonging to a particular religious or cultural tradition, often involving supernatural beings.

Folklore: The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community passed through generations, often featuring supernatural elements.

Alchemy: A philosophical and proto-scientific tradition that aimed to transform matter and achieve the mystical goal of immortality, often linked to supernatural themes.