A tragedy can be defined as, out of the ordinary events that happen to ordinary people with extraordinarily negative consequences. Tragedies deal with the faults and weaknesses of men, and how these can bring about a dangerous, desperate end. Hamlet, by William Shakespeare, is a perfect example of a tragedy because many innocent people are subjected to circumstances beyond their control, which will bring about death and destruction. The greed and yearning for power displayed by some cost innocent people a very high price. Many characters portrayed in the play are evil; they corrupt the world around them just by existing. Throughout Hamlet many references are made to symbolize the Bubonic plague that encompassed China, Asia, Africa, and most of Europe. It is evident that William Shakespeare intended to create a play that was based around the decay of the people and what becomes of them. The Black Plague originally started because of the impurity of the people and how they were contaminating the Earth. Corruption is based upon the decay of a kingdom, the morally corrupt individuals, and the need for power and control.
             Opening with a reference to the Black Plague, Hamlet portrays the casualties that occurred very long ago, and repeats them in a more modern demonstration. The Black Plague swept over most of the world and spread the disease caused by rodents and fleas that carried "Pasteurella pestis". (Saki 1). The disease was spread through importing and exporting between countries. It became such a big problem because nobody expected the rodents to be the cause of the disease and it just kept spreading. (Saki 1). Meyer explains the benefits of having a controlling but fair leader, "The King of Denmark is deteriorating and rotting the state and its people"(Meyer 2). Every kingdom needs a strong moral leader or ruler holding it steady. Without this, it becomes incredibly easy for corruption to set in an...