Introduction
Shakespeare’s Hamlet is renowned as a tragic masterpiece. The demise of almost every main character, including the eponymous hero, forms a pivotal part of the narrative. This paper theorizes about why Shakespeare chose this particular ending and whether it has any roots in prior literature.
Why Shakespeare’s Hamlet Ends in Tragedy
One possible reason for the widespread death could be to emphasize the themes of corruption, mortality, and the futility of revenge. Hamlet’s obsessive pursuit of revenge leads to his downfall and the demise of those he loves. By ensuring that Hamlet does not survive, Shakespeare reinforces the tragic consequences of his actions, thereby underlining the story’s moral: revenge is a destructive, self-defeating act (Shakespeare, 2021).
Furthermore, Shakespeare might have been influenced by the conventions of Greek tragedy, which often concluded with the deaths of the main characters. Shakespeare’s works are known to contain elements inspired by classical literature, and Hamlet is no exception. This tragic ending is also reminiscent of the Senecan model of tragedy, which often ended in a bloodbath, signifying society’s moral degeneration.
The ending, where not only the villains but also Hamlet die, can also be viewed as a dramatic device to evoke strong emotional reactions from the audience. It is a bleak reminder of the inevitability of death, heightening the tragic ambiance of the play.
Finally, the death of nearly every main character completes the narrative arc. Hamlet’s death is not just a personal tragedy but also a political one, leaving Denmark in a power vacuum and under foreign control, thus bringing the story full circle from the political unrest at the beginning of the play.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shakespeare’s decision to kill off almost every main character in Hamlet stems from a combination of factors: exploring themes such as revenge and mortality, influences from Greek and Senecan tragedies, the need to evoke emotional reactions, and the drive to complete the narrative arc. This tragic conclusion enhances the timeless appeal and profundity of this literary masterpiece.
Reference
Shakespeare, W. (2021). Hamlet.