Meaning: This quote by Andrew Bradley Judge provides insight into the nature of Shakespeare's tragedies, particularly focusing on the inevitability of the catastrophes that occur in his plays. Bradley suggests that Shakespeare's tragedies do not rely on surprising plot twists or unexpected turns of events to create their impact. Instead, the tragedies are characterized by a sense of inevitability, where the audience may not foresee the precise manner in which the catastrophe will unfold, but they are aware that it is a foregone conclusion.

Shakespeare is renowned for his exploration of human nature and the complexities of the human condition, and this is reflected in his tragedies. The quote highlights the idea that Shakespeare's tragic events are not arbitrary or contrived for the sake of shock value, but rather they unfold as a natural consequence of the characters' actions and the underlying themes of the play. This approach to tragedy creates a sense of emotional and dramatic weight, as the audience becomes invested in the characters and their fates, knowing that the unfolding catastrophe is an integral part of the story.

One of the key elements that contributes to the inevitability of Shakespeare's catastrophes is the depth and complexity of his characters. Shakespeare's protagonists often grapple with internal conflicts, moral dilemmas, and fatal flaws that ultimately lead to their downfall. These character traits and the decisions they make set the stage for the tragic events that unfold. Whether it is the ambition of Macbeth, the jealousy of Othello, or the indecision of Hamlet, the audience witnesses the gradual unraveling of the characters' lives, leading to the catastrophic outcomes that are, as Bradley suggests, felt to be inevitable.

Furthermore, Shakespeare's use of dramatic irony and foreshadowing adds to the sense of inevitability in his tragedies. Through soliloquies, asides, and subtle hints in the dialogue, Shakespeare provides the audience with clues and insights into the characters' thoughts and motivations. This allows the audience to anticipate the tragic trajectory of the story, even if the characters themselves remain unaware of their impending downfall. The dramatic irony creates a tension between what the audience knows and what the characters perceive, reinforcing the sense of inevitability as the events unfold inexorably towards the catastrophic conclusion.

In addition to the characters and dramatic devices, Shakespeare's thematic exploration also contributes to the inevitability of his catastrophes. His tragedies often delve into timeless and universal themes such as power, ambition, love, jealousy, and the consequences of human actions. These themes resonate with audiences across different time periods and cultures, emphasizing the enduring relevance of Shakespeare's work. The thematic depth and complexity add layers of meaning to the tragic events, reinforcing the idea that these catastrophes are not arbitrary occurrences, but rather they are deeply rooted in the human experience.

In conclusion, Andrew Bradley Judge's quote offers valuable insight into the nature of Shakespeare's tragedies, highlighting the sense of inevitability that pervades these works. Shakespeare's tragedies are not constructed to shock or surprise the audience with abrupt twists of fate; instead, they unfold with a sense of inexorable progression, driven by the characters, themes, and dramatic devices. This approach to tragedy not only captivates audiences with its emotional and dramatic impact but also invites them to contemplate the complexities of human nature and the profound consequences of human actions. Shakespeare's enduring ability to evoke a profound sense of inevitability in his catastrophes continues to resonate with audiences and scholars, cementing his status as a master of tragic storytelling.