Hamlet

Roles

• King Claudius - Adult (36-50), Senior (>50), Male

About this piece

King Claudius addresses his court

Summary

The play is set in Denmark at the Elsinore Castle. In the first scene of the play two watchmen, Bernardo and Marcellus, together with Horatio, Prince Hamlet's friend, witness the apparition of a ghost that they believe is the ghost of the recently deceased King Hamlet. Horatio argues that this apparition has a meaning, that is some misfortune is about to happen in Denmark. Horatio explains what he thinks is about to happen in Denmark, that is the army of Norway, led by Prince Fortinbras, will soon attack them. King Hamlet, he explains, had killed Fortinbras of Norway, defeated his army and won his lands. Now he thinks his son will seek revenge and attack them, which is why they are working as watchmen in the first place. The second scene of ACT I starts with a monologue from the newly appointed King of Denmark, King Claudius, King Hamlet's brother. He explains that even if he is saddened by his brother's death, he has decided to marry Gertrude, Hamlet's mother, to bring some happiness to Denmark in this time of mourning. He talks about a letter he received from Prince Fortinbras asking for his lands back. The king tells the court that he has sent two of his men to talk to the Prince's uncle, who is more likely to reach an agreement on the matter.

Tone

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