For example, is the ghost Hamlet's father, what does he represent, and why is this so significant? It is also strange that there is no mention of Hamlet within this opening, especially since he is to be the central figure. This heightens the sense of mystery and intrigue with which the audience greet the first scene. Even the way that the lines are written in this opening scene highlight the anxious mood, and create dramatic tension. Shakespeare's writing is well known for long speeches and blank verse, so it is therefore unexpected when the opening scene contains short disjointed lines and sharp comments, .
"Barnardo: Have you had a quiet guard? .
Francisco: Not a mouse stirring. .
Barnardo: Well, good night." (1:1:10-13).
These short sentences show that the guards are on edge and are clearly expecting something dreadful to occur. There are also many exclamation marks and question marks, "Stand, ho! Who is there?" (1:1:15), which further show the unease of the sentinels and the fact that they are very wary of the situation as well as what is yet to come. .
The setting of this scene further expands upon the drama of the opening. The play opens in the dead of night on the battlements of a Danish Castle, a harsh and cold image. We are informed by Barnardo, "'Tis now struck twelve", a time that can be referred to as the witching hour. An element of the supernatural is hinted at here, almost a forewarning of what is to come. These factors combined, form a chilling and eerie backdrop to the play, demonstrating the tone in which the rest of the play is to follow. At the beginning of the scene there is a change of the guard, and the unease with which Francisco initially greets Barnardo, followed by relief clearly demonstrate that all is not right, .
"Francisco: For this relief much thanks. 'Tis bitter cold, and I am sick at heart." (1:1:8-9).
Francisco reveals here that he is afraid of something, causing the audience to ponder upon what this may be.