Supernatural

Definition

The supernatural refers to phenomena or entities that exist beyond the natural world and cannot be explained by natural laws or science. This concept often encompasses elements like ghosts, deities, magic, and otherworldly beings, challenging the boundaries of reality and human understanding. In literature, the supernatural serves as a powerful tool for exploring themes of morality, fate, and the human condition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Supernatural elements in tragedies often serve to create tension and highlight the characters' internal struggles with guilt, ambition, or revenge.
2. Shakespeare's 'Macbeth' prominently features supernatural themes through the appearance of the three witches and their prophecies, which drive Macbeth's actions.
3. The supernatural can symbolize societal fears or moral lessons, often representing the consequences of hubris or moral corruption in tragic narratives.
4. In many tragedies, encounters with the supernatural force characters to confront their own humanity and make choices that lead to their downfall.
5. The use of supernatural elements can blur the lines between reality and illusion, intensifying the emotional impact of tragic events on both characters and audiences.

Review Questions

• How does the supernatural function in major tragedies to develop character motivations and themes?
  • In major tragedies, the supernatural often acts as a catalyst for character motivations and thematic exploration. For instance, in 'Macbeth,' the witches' prophecies ignite Macbeth's ambition and lead him to commit heinous acts. This interaction highlights themes of fate versus free will and demonstrates how supernatural influences can manipulate human desires, driving characters toward their tragic ends.
• Analyze how different authors utilize supernatural elements to convey moral messages within tragic narratives.
  • Different authors employ supernatural elements in unique ways to convey moral messages within tragic narratives. For example, Shakespeare uses the witches in 'Macbeth' to illustrate how succumbing to ambition can lead to one's downfall. In contrast, other works might portray supernatural beings as agents of justice or vengeance, reinforcing the idea that immoral actions will ultimately face repercussions. This highlights the varied functions of the supernatural in addressing ethical dilemmas faced by characters.
• Evaluate the impact of supernatural occurrences on audience perception and emotional engagement in tragedy.
  • Supernatural occurrences significantly enhance audience perception and emotional engagement in tragedy by creating an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue. When characters interact with supernatural forces, it invites viewers to question reality and explore deeper existential themes. This engagement allows audiences to empathize with characters’ struggles against fate and moral choices, making their eventual downfalls more poignant. The supernatural serves as a bridge between the ordinary and extraordinary, deepening the audience's connection to the emotional gravity of tragic events.

Related terms

Paranormal: Events or phenomena that lie outside the realm of normal scientific understanding, such as ghost sightings or telepathy.

Fate: The idea that events are predetermined and that individuals have little control over their destinies, often connected to supernatural forces.

Mythology: A collection of traditional stories, often involving supernatural beings or events, that explain natural phenomena, human behavior, or cultural beliefs.