Hamlet, Act 1 Scene 1

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something. 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. 9, ln.8). This evokes a mood of foreboding and mystery. At one point, Fransisco ends his watch thankfully because, "he is sick at heart," (p.9, Ln. 10). Shortly after the atmosphere is created, the reader is introduced to the idea of a ghost, which sets a mood of dread and eerieness. The men speak of the ghost with great fear, and are very apprehensive to witness it again. Also introduced is the impression of death and the supernatural. 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. 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. With use of such elements, ...

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