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In the time of William Shakespeare there was a strong belief

in the existence of the supernatural. Thus, the supernatural is a

recurring aspect in many of Mr. Shakespeare¹s plays. In two such

plays, Hamlet and Macbeth, the supernatural is an integral part of

the structure of the plot. It provides a catalyst for action, an

insight into character, and augments the impact of many key scenes.

The supernatural appears to the audience in many varied forms. In

Hamlet there appears perhaps the most notable of the supernatural

forms, the ghost. However, in Macbeth, not only does a ghost appear

but a floating dagger, witches, and prophetic apparitions make

appearances. The role of the supernatural is very important in Hamlet

and Macbeth.



A ghost, appearing in the form of Hamlet¹s father, makes

several appearances in the play. It first appears to the watchmen,

Marcellus and Bernardo, along with Horatio near the guardsmens' post.

The ghost says nothing to them and is perceived with fear and

apprehension, ³It harrows me with fear and wonder². It is not until

the appearance of Hamlet that the ghost speaks, and only then after

Horatio has expressed his fears about Hamlet following it, ³What if it

tempt you toward the flood, my lord, or to the dreadful summit of the

cliff².



The conversation between the ghost and Hamlet serves as a

catalyst for Hamlet¹s later actions and provides insight into Hamlet¹s

character. The information the ghost reveals incites Hamlet into

action against a situation he was already uncomfortable with, and now

even more so. Hamlet is not quick to...