How I Envision Hamlet Act I Scene iv

The stage is semi-dark stage with foggy mist (if the production budget allows for it). In the middle of the stage a small fire pit burns for warmth. As Marcellus, Horatio, and Hamlet enter stage left, in the distance jovial voices, music and simulated gunfire are heard off stage, signifying Claudius’s all night drinking party. Marcellus is dressed in a medieval uniform, chainmail under a white sheath with the Hamlet family crest on the chest. He carries a large staff with a sharp blade and dons a metal helmet with a metal nose cover extending down the middle. He also wears a dark, thick cape to keep warm during his all night guard duty. Marcellus is visibly afraid but is still trying to protect Prince Hamlet and Horatio by leading the group on stage. Horatio enters behind Marcellus bundled in a thigh length coat and hat that covers his ears. He is also visibly afraid yet alert. Hamlet wanders on stage last, wearing a hooded cape in all black because he is still mourning his father’s death. He is looking around as if in disbelief and confusion.

Marcellus stands on the thrust with his hand on his forehead, eyes squinted, peering in the audience, keeping watch. Horatio and Hamlet stand near the fire rubbing their hands for warmth. When King Hamlet’s ghost appears the three men join together stage left near the thrust. Horatio is praying and Marcellus is looking terrified as they stand behind Hamlet who is down on one knee. Slowly and noisily King Hamlet’s ghost comes down the thrust. He is wearing an open beaver and a chainmail shirt. He says nothing, but stomps and rattles. As Hamlet speaks to the ghost, King Hamlet says nothing, walks stage right and motions for Hamlet to follow him. As Hamlet goes after the ghost, Horatio and Marcellus try unsuccessfully to stop him by pulling at his arms, blocking his path and drawing their swords. Hamlet breaks free by drawing his own sword and pursues the ghost off stage right. Horatio and Marcellus follow him offstage. Immediately, King Hamlet’s ghost re-enters stage right, followed close behind by only Hamlet.