Hamlet Quote Log 4

“Muder most foul, as in the best it is, but this most foul, strange, and unnatural” (1. 5. 33-34).

            Hamlet receives his first chance to speak to the apparition which claims to be his father’s spirit. He tells Hamlet not only to assail Claudius, but to murder the man to avenge King Hamlet’s death. Since Claudius has usurped the position of king, Hamlet has been an emotional wreck. Unable to find compassion in his mother or uncle, the malicious ghost appears to be an emotional outlet for Hamlet. It could very well serve as his conscious, as he may be contemplating whether or not to avenge his father’s death. There is evidence that the apparition is real. Hamlet’s friends were not able to speak to the ghost but did very well see it.