From their speech, the reader learns that there has been a battle, and the result was the king’s death.”Such was the very armor he had on when he the ambitious Norway combated,”introduces the conflict between Denmark and Norway. This clearly indicates that there is some sort of situation to be resolved, and that there is a reason for the king to be returning from the grave.

While speaking about the ghost, the men inquire whether it is the dead king or not. In addition to setting a mood for the story, the first scene of Hamlet also reveals important background information. With use of such elements, Shakespeare effectively paints a distinct mood for the remainder of the play. And if it is a ghost, why has it returned? The appearance of a wordless ghost is an important dramatic device that Shakespeare uses to rivet attention to the action, as well as to set the tone of the story. Although it is assumed that the ghost is that of the late king, it is also presented that perhaps it is a demon, posing as the king. Also introduced is the impression of death and the supernatural. The men speak of the ghost with great fear, and are very apprehensive to witness it again. Shortly after the atmosphere is created, the reader is introduced to the idea of a ghost, which sets a mood of dread and eerieness. At one point, Fransisco ends his watch thankfully because, “he is sick at heart,” (p.9, Ln. This evokes a mood of foreboding and mystery. Another factor that reveals a mood of wariness and caution is how the night is dark, the air is chilling, and the characters speak of “the bitter cold,” (p. When the reader is first introduced to the main characters outside the castle, they are suspiciously asking each other to identify themselves.Įveryone seems to be on edge from the start, as if anticipating something.

From the beginning of the scene, the reader is aware of the atmosphere of mistrust and uncertainty lingering in the air.

One important task it serves is to determine the mood of the play. In Hamlet, Act 1, Scene 1 proves to be a vital element to understanding the play.

Hamlet play by william shakespeare