English.

In the plays Hamlet and Macbeth, written by William Shakespeare, the supernatural is an integral part of each plot’s structure. During the time that William Shakespeare was writing these plays, there was a strong belief by most people in the existence of the supernatural. Thus, the supernatural is a recurring aspect in many of Shakespeare’s plays. In two of his plays, Hamlet and Macbeth, the supernatural provides a catalyst for action, an insight into character, and enhances the impact of many key scenes. This essay will investigate the supernatural and beliefs prevalent during Shakespeare’s lifetime, the role of the supernatural in Hamlet, the role of the supernatural in Macbeth, and similarities and differences between Hamlet and Macbeth. The role of the supernatural is very important each

The supernatural is classified as the unnatural or the unexplainable mysteries of our universe. In Shakespeare's time, it was common for people to relate any unusual happening to the supernatural, since this was the most simplistic answer to give. Everyone from educated people to the ignorant peasants believed in the supernatural. The Elizabethan English had several beliefs in superstitions. Some of

Shakespeare’s play, Hamlet is similar to Macbeth in that it also includes a plot with the supernatural. In Hamlet, the supernatural appears as a ghost to the guardsmen Horatio, Marcellus, and Bernardo. They believe the ghost is of Old Hamlet, the father of Hamlet, so they find Hamlet and notify him of the happenings. The ghost does not speak until Hamlet appears and only after Horatio has expressed his fears about Hamlet following the ghost, Horatio said, "What if it tempt you toward the flood, my lord, or to the dreadful summit of the cliff."(1.4, 69-70). Also, the information the ghost revealed roused Hamlet into action against a situation involving his uncle and mother which angered him.

Hamlet was not quick to believe the ghost, which reveals aspects of...