Hamlet: Essay On Act I

Hamlet: Essay On Act I


Act one of HAMLET   is an excellent introductory act.   Shakespeare
establishes atmosphere, by introducing the major characters, the role of the
supernatural, the revenge plot, the love plot, and the contrast of the
Fortinbras plot, as well as Hamlet"s fiegned madness.   Through his unique
writing style, Shakespeare sets us up for the rest of the story, and captures
the reader"s attention, making him want read more.

Shakespeare establishes the atmosphere of the play, in scene I.   The
scene takes place in Elsinore, on a platform before the castle.   The atmosphere
is one of dark battlements, and nervous sentries, which catches the audiences
attention right away.   As the bell tolls twelve on a frosty night, a silent
ghost of the late King Hamlet apperars twice.   This provides one of the high
points of the scene, along with this, Shakespeare presents the reader with
information, regarding the military preparations in Denmark.   All of this
provides for a dark, mysterious atmosphere, where the reader is wanting to know
more.   Shakesperare continues to establish atmosphere in scene III.   In this
scene, atmosphere of a different
kind is created. This scene is a family scene,
in which brotherly, and fatherly advice creates an atmosphere quite different
from that of the appearance of the ghost and the problems of Hamlet and his
relatives.   This creates an atmosphere of love, and betrayall, whereby Ophelia
is forced to obey her father Polonious, and is told to be careful with Hamlet,
as he is a prince, and will not look to marry just anyone, such as herself.
Shakespeare continues to develop atmosphere throughout the act, and uses the
atmosphere to introduce some of the characters in the play.

Shakespeare introduces some of the major characters in the play, and
leaves lasting impressions of each on the reader.   Bernardo, and Francisco are
introduced in the first scene, as officers watching their posts, but it is
Horetio that leaves the greatest...