To what extent does Hamlet correspond to classical or medieval notions of tragedy?

MEG – 02: BRITISH DRAMA

ASSIGNMENT 2021 - 2022

3. To what extent does Hamlet correspond to classical or medieval notions of tragedy? 

Ans. Hamlet as a Tragedy: Shakespeare's play Hamlet is a very dramatic play, involving many conniving people, murder,and an overall atmosphere of suspense. It is therefore referred to as a tragedy. There are many aspects in Hamlet that make it one of Shakespeare's best tragedies. There are numerous murders including the untimely death of the innocent and pure Ophelia,and the murder of two loving fathers: King Hamlet and Polonius. 

There are also numerous revenge plots including those of Laertes, Hamletand Fortinbras. As the play progresses, hatred becomes evident between many characters of the play. After a deeper study of the play however, it becomes evident that two characters are more responsible for it being a tragedy, Hamletand Claudius. Hence, Hamlet rises above the revenge play and answers to subtler demands of a great tragedy. In the end Hamlet turns out to be a great tragedy rather than a mere revenge play.

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