Hamlet

The mood of the opening scene of Hamlet is uncertain, and fearful. The guards are not sure what the meaning is of the figure that they are seeing. Horatio and the others are all afraid when they see the ghost. Horatio announces that the ghost symbolizes the misfortune that will soon come to Denmark. However, the men are uncertain exactly what misfortunes will arise. The first scene is connected to the appearance of the ghost in Act 1 Scene 4. Hamlet is also uncertain of whether the ghost is truly his father or an evil spirit. Horatio is still fearful for what the ghost's appearance will mean for Denmark. Horatio suggests to Hamlet that the ghost may tempt him to jump in the sea or over a cliff. Hamlet acknowledges that the spirit could be "a spirit of health," bringing him goodness, or "goblin damned," bringing destruction. Hamlet is aware of the uncertainty and danger of the situation, but decides to go away to speak to the ghost privately.

Polonius is extremely controlling of his children. Even with Laertes leaving the country, Polonius tells him exactly how to behave. He also forbids Ophelia to see or speak to Hamlet. Ophelia respects and obeys her father. Laertes and Ophelia have a mutual respect for each other. Laertes warns Ophelia about falling in love with Hamlet. He does not want his sister to be hurt by a prince whose main concern is his position in the court. Ophelia agrees to remember her brother's advice, but also tells him to practice what he preaches. The family as a unit is common for the time period. Ophelia, as the woman, would be expected to submit to her father and respect her brother. Polonius leads his children like a true head of a household. Unfortunately for this family, Polonius does not always know best nor make the best decisions.

The ghost claims to be Hamlet's father. He says is fate is that he is stuck in purgatory until he pays off his sins. He describes himself as having been murdered viciously by his brother, Hamlet's uncle, Cluadius (the current king). Hamlet is shocked and eagar to avenge his father's wrongful death. The ghost wants Hamlet to avenge his death, but he instructs Hamlet to leave his mother, Gertrude, alone. Hamlet promises to remember his father's wishes. When talking to Horatio and Marcellus, Hamlet suggests that he will precede by seeming crazy. He specifically says he will "put an antic disposition on." He wants people to believe he has lost his mind to some degree.