We have all, undoubtedly, experienced sadness in our lives. Have we all, however, experienced melancholy? The answer to this question will depend on your definition of melancholy. What is the difference between melancholy and sadness, if there is one at all? As some fellow scholars suggested, melancholy is a lingering, gloomy state that is characterized by numbness. Sadness, on the other hand, is a fleeting or temporary emotion that can come and go at any time.

This distinction appears to be relatively clear. I, however, have a question of my own: What exactly is the difference between melancholy and depression, if there is one at all? Can these terms be used interchangeably? I am currently taking HD 3700 (Introduction to Adult Psychopathology). Thus, I became particularly excited when Sara talked about Freud and Hamlet because we are covering them right now as well! Early in the play, my professor mentioned that Hamlet displayed 4 out of the 5 symptoms of depression. Was Hamlet suffering from depression or was he experiencing something else? According to my professor, Shakespeare understood clinical psychology better than anyone. His insight of the human mind was uncanny, especially for his time.

I also felt like I could relate to the image of the tortured, creative artist. I personally have a friend that fits this description perfectly. He even acknowledges it himself. Although my friend is incredibly talented (music, drawing, etc.), he suffers from depression (once again, is there a difference between melancholy and depression?). Does one’s creative genius flourish through suffering? If so, is it worth it?