Aristotle poetic through Shakespeare's Hamlet

This blog is based on Aristotle poetic. This task was assigned by Dilip Barad sir.

Exploring Aristotle Poetic Through

Shakespeare's Hamlet

Introduction 

          Exploring Aristotle's concept of tragedy through Shakespeare's Hamlet offers a profound insight into the timeless principles of dramatic theory and their application in one of the greatest works of English literature. Aristotle's poetic established like plot, structure, character development, and the cathartic effect on the audience. By the examining Hamlet through the lens of Aristotle's tragedy, we gain a deeper understanding of how Shakespeare's play embodies, adapts and sometimes challenges classical notion of tragic drama , ultimately illuminating the enduring relevance of both Aristotle's theories and Shakespeare's masterful storytelling.

Plot and Structure 

According to Aristotle , a tragedy must have a well - structured plot, with a beginning, middle, and end that are tightly interconnected. In Hamlet Shakespeare adheres to this principal by crafting a complex narrative where the protagonist's quest for revenge drives the plot forward. The play opens with the ghost of king Hamlet revealing his murder to his son, setting off a chain of events that lead to the dramatic climax and ultimately, the tragic resolution. The unfolding of these events , each leading logically to the next, exemplifies Aristotle's concept of a well-constructed plot that evokes fear and pity in the audience. 

Characterization 

          Aristotle emphasizes that a tragedy's characters should be noble and exhibit a tragic flow, or Hamartia which leads to their downfall. Hamlet, the prince of Denmark, fits this criterion well. His indecision and procrastination stemming from his deep contemplation and moral struggle - are his tragic flaws. These traits make him a relatable and profound character, whose actions and inactions drive the narrative and lead to his eventual demise. This complexity is central to Aristotle's idea that characters should be multifaceted and capable of evoking empathy from the audience. 

Catharsis

        A critical concept in Aristotle's poetic is catharsis,  the emotional purification or relief that audiences experience through their engagement with the tragedy. In Hamlet , the audience is drawn into the emotional turmoil of the characters, particularly Hamlet's internal conflict and existential dread. As the tragic events unfold- culminating in the play's intense climax viewers experience a profound emotional release, resonating with Aristotle's notion of catharsis. The intense feelings of fear and pity , followed by the resolution of the play's conflicts, provide a sense of emotional cleansing. 

Conclusion 

       In conclusion,  Aristotle's poetic provides a valuable framework for analysing dramatic works, and Shakespeare's Hamlet serves as a compelling example of these principles in action. By applying Aristotle's concepts to Hamlet, we can appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship behind Shakespeare's play and understand why it remains a powerful and relevent tragedy. Aristotle's insights into plot, structure,  character development, and emotional impact continue to offer a profound lens through which we can explore the complexities of dramatic literature. 

References: 

- Dilip Barad. " Aristotle Poetic ". Teacher blog , August 2023.

- Chatgpt 

- google