Hamlet by William Shakespeare | Act 1, Scene 4 Summary & Analysis

Summary

In this scene from Hamlet, the prince, Horatio, and Marcellus await the appearance of the ghost while hearing revelry from the castle. Hamlet criticizes Claudius' excessive partying, which tarnishes Denmark's reputation. When the ghost of his father appears, Hamlet is shocked and eager to follow, despite Horatio's warnings of danger and potential madness. This pivotal moment contrasts Hamlet's contempt for Claudius and deep devotion to his father. Themes of grief and madness are introduced, with Hamlet reflecting on the value of his life and the risk of losing his sanity.

Takeaways

• 👑 Hamlet criticizes Claudius for his excessive drinking and partying, which tarnishes Denmark's reputation.
• 🍷 Claudius' behavior is seen as disrespectful to the memory of his dead brother, Hamlet's father.
• 🇩🇰 Hamlet believes Claudius' actions make Denmark look bad, despite not being the first ruler to indulge in revelry.
• 👻 The ghost of Hamlet's father appears, startling Hamlet, who immediately wants to follow it.
• ⚠️ Horatio warns Hamlet not to follow the ghost, as it might be dangerous, but Hamlet ignores the warning.
• 💔 Hamlet expresses the depth of his sorrow, believing his life has little value, as shown by his words 'I do not set my life at a pin’s fee.'
• 😵 The theme of madness is introduced, with Horatio warning that following the ghost could drive Hamlet insane.
• 🧠 The idea of real or feigned madness becomes central to the story from this moment onward.
• 🌑 Much of the interaction between Hamlet and the ghost happens out of sight and hearing from other characters, heightening mystery.
• ⚔️ The tension between Hamlet's disdain for Claudius and his devotion to his father is starkly presented, as Hamlet is willing to follow his father even beyond death.

Q & A

What is the context of Hamlet's remarks about Claudius' behavior in the scene?

Hamlet is upset by Claudius' drunken celebrations, feeling that such behavior dishonors Denmark and tarnishes the nation's reputation, especially given the recent death of his father.

How does Hamlet's speech about a single fault overwhelming positive attributes relate to Claudius?

Hamlet uses this idea to highlight how Claudius' excessive drinking and revelry overshadow his better qualities, damaging his reputation and that of Denmark.

How does Hamlet react when he first sees the ghost of his father?

Hamlet is stunned by the appearance of the ghost, as it looks exactly like his late father. He is eager to speak with it and understand why it has appeared.

Why does Horatio caution Hamlet not to follow the ghost?

Horatio warns Hamlet that following the ghost could be dangerous and might lead to madness. He believes the ghost may have harmful intentions.

What role does madness play in this scene, according to the script?

Madness is a central theme in this scene, as Horatio warns that following the ghost could lead Hamlet to lose his sanity. This theme of madness, whether real or pretended, is crucial throughout the play.

What is the significance of Hamlet's statement 'I do not set my life at a pin's fee'?

This line reveals Hamlet's deep sorrow and sense of hopelessness, as he implies that he places little value on his own life, reflecting his depression and disillusionment.

How does the appearance of the ghost shift the tone of the scene?

The ghost's appearance dramatically shifts the tone from Hamlet's contemplation of his uncle's behavior to a tense and mysterious moment, focusing on the supernatural and Hamlet's connection to his father's spirit.

What does Hamlet's willingness to follow the ghost suggest about his character?

Hamlet's eagerness to follow the ghost demonstrates his devotion to his father and his strong desire to uncover the truth, even at the risk of danger.

How does Shakespeare contrast Hamlet's feelings toward Claudius and his father in this scene?

Shakespeare contrasts Hamlet's negative view of Claudius, who he sees as dishonorable and unfit to rule, with his deep respect and loyalty to his father, whom he is willing to follow even in death.

What is the broader significance of this scene in the play?

This scene introduces key themes such as Hamlet's internal conflict, his disillusionment with life, and the tension between sanity and madness. It also sets the stage for Hamlet's quest for truth and justice.