Opening Scene
The opening scene is one of quiet eery stillness. Francisco describes the nights watch as “bitter cold” explaining that it has been a quiet watch “Not a mouse stirring.” In this scene the spirit of the old king crosses Marcellus and Bernardo as they stand guard. The ghost of the king drive the mood of the scene to one supernatural intrigue and mystery. In the fourth scene the ghost reappears. Horatio is more terrified now crying out to the heavens in fear. He believes the ghost’s intensions are to destroy Hamlet either through leading him to danger or as an instrument of insanity. On the other hand Hamlet believes the ghost to be connected to his own fate and shows less fear.
The Ghost
When the ghost finally speaks to Hamlet he reveals himself as Hamlet’s father. The old king’s spirit explains he was murder by his brother who now holds the kingdom and has taken his wife. Hamlet is informed, his father’s spirit cannot rest until there is revenge for his murder and the kingdom is brought to order. Hamlet takes the news quite well, having just conversed with a ghost claiming to be his father and having his world flip upside down with family drama and murder plots. Much better than would be expected of a person in his situation.
After his supernatural family, conference Hamlet tells the guards to tell no one what happened that night. He warns them not to be surprised of his actions in the near future. It is evident he means to put his father’s spirit to rest, taking revenge on his uncle and reclaim the kingdom.
Extra Credit
Polonius cares for his children greatly and does his best to guide them through advice. Laertes and Ophelia respond well to their father’s advice. Ophelia and Laertes act as sibling do, though not necessarily how their supposed to. Laertes is given advice from her brother that she is slow to accept, believing him to be a hypocrite not taking his own advice.
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