Why Is There So Much Supernatural Content in Shakespeare's Plays?

When we conjure the image of Shakespeare, he is often hailed as a genius, a literary giant whose works have left an indelible mark on world literature. However, it is often forgotten that he was a jobbing writer, whose primary motive was to make a living. This reality brings to question the purpose behind the frequent inclusion of supernatural elements in his plays.

One compelling hypothesis is that the inclusion of fantastical and supernatural content served a commercial purpose. Neil Ward has offered detailed insights into the utility of such elements, suggesting that they effectively attracted audiences. As Ward argues, the supernatural content was a tool that helped in selling tickets. This hypothesis aligns with the observation that audiences were drawn to plays that featured supernatural elements.

The Psychological and Commercial Appeal of Supernatural Content

Supernatural elements in Shakespeare's plays serve multiple functions. In tragedies like Hamlet, ghosts often manifest as objectifications of inner psychological stress. For instance, in Hamlet, the ghost of Hamlet's father appears briefly, representing the protagonist's deep-seated anxiety and emotional turmoil. Meanwhile, in plays like Midsummer Night's Dream and The Tempest, supernatural elements are more playful, setting up pranks on minor characters while suggesting the presence of a rich, unseen universe that amplifies the psychological resonance of the play.

It is important to note that the inclusion of supernatural elements does not necessarily imply a literal belief in these entities. While in Macbeth, the introduction of witches serves as a direct objectification of the protagonist's inner stress, it is evident from historical context and the play's structure that Shakespeare was crafting a play that both entertained and reflected societal beliefs of his time, including the influence of King James’s opinions on the matter.

Examples of Supernatural Content in Shakespeare's Plays

While Shakespeare frequently infuses his plays with supernatural elements, the frequency and type of such content can vary significantly. For example:

Hamlet features a pivotal appearance by the ghost of Hamlet's father, which is directly tied to the protagonist's psychological state. Midsummer Night's Dream is brimming with faeries and other fantastical creatures, highlighting the playful and whimsical aspects of the story. The Tempest also contains supernatural elements, such as the magical island and the enchanted spirits, which serve to form a rich and imaginative backdrop for the narrative.

These examples illustrate how supernatural content is used to serve different narrative and thematic purposes across Shakespeare's plays. From representing inner turmoil to providing a whimsical and imaginative setting, the inclusion of the supernatural enhances the overall theatrical experience.

Conclusion

The inclusion of supernatural content in Shakespeare's plays is a multifaceted phenomenon. While it undoubtedly served a commercial purpose by attracting audiences, it also played a crucial role in enhancing the psychological and thematic depth of the work. Understanding the reasons behind the frequent use of the supernatural enriches our appreciation of Shakespeare's genius as a writer, balancing commercial and artistic motivations in his craft.