A Study on the Ghost in Hamlet

Abstract

There have been various opinions on the delay of Hamlet's revenge to the last moment since the 18th century. But it is necessary to handle the theme of “appearance and reality” in order to appreciate the drama written by Shakespeare. Under this view we need to understand the figure and meaning of ghost in Hamlet. It seems that most of the Elizabethans regarded a ghost as a kind of demon that deceived people and let them fall into hell. But the ghost in Hamlet is ambiguous in order to make Shakespeare show a realistic ghost on the Elizabethan stage. The ghost in Hamlet appears to be such a demon and to be Hamlet's father's ghost that intends to confess the truth to his son. Therefore Hamlet is doubtful as to whether what the ghost said was true.

And in the Elizabethan age it was the most horrible crime to murder a king. Therefore Hamlet cannot help hesitating to take his revenge upon his uncle, the new king.