The presence of the ghost in Shakespeare's Hamlet emits an ominous tone while foreshadowing a theme of death. In addition to this theme, it also sheds light on the mystery surrounding the death of Hamlet's father, the King of Denmark. Ghostly figures often represent unresolved issues in literary works as well as a prediction of revenge, necessary to soothe the tormented soul. In the case of Hamlet, the ghost creates mystery for the audience, brings death and betrayal to Denmark, and gives the play a dark and gloomy appearance. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay The ghost does not speak despite the efforts of Horatio, Marcellus and Bernardo and such happiness creates suspense in the audience as they are unaware of the intentions as well as the purpose of the ghost. However, the ghost is belatedly used to inform Hamlet and the audience of the king's murder by his own brother Claudius. The ghost finally speaks and says this to Hamlet: Take revenge for his most vile and unnatural murder. The most despicable murder, as in the best case scenario, but this one the most despicable, the strangest and the most unnatural...... A snake bit me. So the whole ear of Denmark is seriously mistreated by a process wrought from my death. But now, noble youth, the serpent that stole your father's life now wears his crown. These two statements undoubtedly reveal the culprit of the king's murder. This eludes to the manner in which the king was prematurely murdered as well as the revenge plot that Hamlet will seek against his father's murderer. Even though the ghost appeared to be Hamlet's father, those who saw him were truly fearful. In the 16th century, a ghost could be considered a demon attempting to deceive a gullible subject. The first signs of fear appear when the ghost appears for the first time to Horatio, Marcellus and Bernardo while they are on the lookout. The ghost appears to Horatio but says nothing then quickly disappears. Soon after, Marcellus and Horatio talk about the former king of Denmark as well as Fortinbras of Norway. The ghost appears a second time and Horatio says: If there is any good to be done, it may do you good and grace to me, speak to me. Horatio bluntly asks the ghost if there is anything he can do to help. the poor soul to resolve its most terrible situation. After Horatio makes his proposal, a rooster crows and the ghost is forced to disappear because he cannot be outside in the daylight. Horatio and Marcellus also learn that attempts to strike the ghost are in vain. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay The ghost, more than anything, plays the role of a developer. It develops plot, emotion, tone and mood. Shakespeare deliberately created a strange and deadly theme for this tragedy and the ghost only fuels this manufactured feeling. The ghost affects every aspect of the play and is the key point on which the plot forms. He also brings mystery to the plot, wonder to the characters, added disquiet to the metaphysics of the play, and sets the tone for the entire play. The overall significance of the ghost is undoubtedly unparalleled by any other character in tragedy, in that the ghost single-handedly shapes and shapes one of the most magnificent Shakespeare plays known to English literature..