Hamlet Analyzed In Terms Of Aristotle's Poetics

Hamlet Analyzed in terms of Aristotle’s Poetics

Hamlet is analyzed as Aristotle’s Poetics because it considered as a well written and effective tragedy. In Aristotle’s opinion, the most important element of the tragedy is plot and followed by others such as character, diction, thought etc. Aristotle defines tragedy as, ‘an imitation of an action that is serious, complete, possessing and magnitude”. Aristotle tragedy is not a narrative and but a purgation of pity and fear which causes catharsis of emotions. Hamlet follows this definition of effective tragedy. The play focuses on Hamlet’s mission to avenge his father’s death which fulfils Aristotle’s definition of tragedy which is of a serious action.

Hamlet is able to take revenge on his father’s death by killing his uncle. The play Hamlet also follows the Aristotle’s idea of the tragedy as certain magnitude. The characters are supposed to be perfect to whom the audience or reader can still relate. Hamlet being wealthy prince deals with same obstacle as a common man. He feels puzzled, terrified and angered about his father’s murder. He doesn’t know how to handle the situation. In that way the audience can relate to his uncertain feeling and able to understand Hamlet.

Aristotle follows three key elements of tragedy: hamartia, anagnorisis and peripeteia. The play follows a perfect application of these Aristotle’s idea. Hamartia is a flaws or character’s own error. Hamlet’s emotional unsteadiness and uncertainty makes him to