Comparison between the supernatural in Hamlet and Macbeth by William ShakespeareAt the time of William Shakespeare there was a strong belief in the existence of the supernatural. Therefore, the supernatural is a recurring theme in many of Shakespeare's works. In two of these plays, Hamlet and Macbeth, the supernatural is an integral part of the plot structure. It provides a catalyst for action, insight into character, and an increased impact of many key scenes. The supernatural appears to the public in many different forms. Perhaps the most notable of supernatural forms, the ghost, appears in Hamlet. However, in Macbeth, not only a ghost appears, but a floating dagger, witches, and prophetic apparitions also appear. The role of the supernatural is very important in both Hamlet and Macbeth. A ghost, in the form of Hamlet's father, makes several visits in the play. He appears for the first time to the sentries, Marcellus and Bernardo, together with Orazio near the guards' post. The ghost, although silent, causes them some anxiety: "It torments me with fear and wonder" (Ii53). It is not until Hamlet's appearance that the ghost speaks, and only then after Horatio has expressed his fears about Hamlet following him: "And if he tempts thee to the flood, my lord, or to the terrible cliff top" (I.iv.76-77). The conversation between the ghost and Hamlet serves as a catalyst for Hamlet's subsequent actions and provides insight into Hamlet's character. The information revealed by the ghost incites Hamlet to take action against a situation with which he was already uncomfortable, and now he is even more so. Hamlet is not ready to believe the ghost: "The spirit I saw may be... in the center of the card... the supernatural provides a catalyst for the action of the characters. It provides information about the main events." players and increases the impact of many key scenes. The supernatural appeals to the audience's curiosity about the mysterious and thus strengthens their interest. Works Cited Curry, Walter Supernatural in Hamlet and Macbeth London: Mass Peter Smith, 1968. Epstein, Norrie,. The Friendly Shakepeare, New York, Viking Publishing, 1993. Magill, Masterplots- Volume 6, New Jersey, Salem Press, 1949. Schlegel, August Wilhelm Criticism on Shakespeare s Tragedies. AMS Press, Inc., 1965.Shakespeare, William. Tragedy of Macbeth Ed.: Oxford University Press, 1995.