The focus of the essay lies on the investigation of three specific examples how William Shakespeare uses supernatural elements like dreams or ghosts in his Historic Play King Richard III, in order to learn how they influence the play structurally and psychologically.
Table of Contents
- The Supernatural in Shakespeare's King Richard III
- Prophetic Dreams
- Clarence's Dream
- Stanley's Dream
- Richard's Dream at Bosworth Field
- Ghosts
- Functions of the Supernatural in King Richard III
Objectives and Key Themes
This essay investigates the role of supernatural elements such as dreams and ghosts in William Shakespeare's history play King Richard III. It aims to analyze how these elements influence the dramatic events and contribute to the play's atmosphere.
- The use of dreams and ghosts as prophetic devices
- The psychological impact of supernatural events on characters
- The role of the supernatural in exposing Richard's evil character
- The interplay between the supernatural and the historical context of the play
- The creation of a dark and ominous atmosphere through supernatural elements
Chapter Summaries
The essay explores the different ways in which Shakespeare utilizes the supernatural in King Richard III, focusing on prophetic dreams and the appearance of ghosts. The first chapter examines Clarence's dream, highlighting how it foreshadows his murder and reveals Richard's evil intentions. It also delves into the historical context of the dream, connecting it to events in Shakespeare's Henry VI.
The second chapter analyzes Stanley's dream, which warns of Richard's danger and highlights Hastings' fatal misjudgment of the situation. The chapter compares and contrasts this dream with Clarence's, emphasizing the psychological impact of ignoring prophetic warnings.
The final chapter focuses on Richard's dream at Bosworth Field, where he is visited by the ghosts of his victims. The chapter analyzes the dream's significance as a foreshadowing device and its role in revealing Richard's psychological downfall. It also explores how the dream serves as a reminder of the past and foreshadows Richard's defeat.
Keywords
The primary focus of this essay lies on the role of dreams and ghosts in William Shakespeare's King Richard III. Key terms and concepts include prophetic dreams, psychological impact, evil character, historical context, dark atmosphere, foreshadowing, dramatic events, and divine justice.
- Quote paper
- Anonym (Author), 2014, William Shakespeare's Use of the Supernatural in Richard III, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/423812
