Shakespeare Today: Hamlet - Act 1 Summary

The video provides a summary of the first act of Shakespeare's Hamlet. It begins with the ghost of old King Hamlet appearing to guards and Horatio at Elsinore. Claudius, the new king, tries to cheer up the court and deal with Fortinbras' threat. Hamlet is deeply grieved by his father's death and his mother's quick remarriage to Claudius. Laertes warns Ophelia about Hamlet's intentions. The ghost reveals to Hamlet that Claudius murdered him, prompting Hamlet to vow revenge and feign madness.

What is the setting of the opening scene of Hamlet?

How does Horatio react to the ghost's appearance?

What advice does Claudius give to Laertes regarding his trip to France?

What is Hamlet's emotional state after his mother's marriage to Claudius?

What revelation does the ghost make to Hamlet?