The presence of the ghost in Shakespeare's Hamlet gives off an eerie tone while foreshadowing the theme of death. In addition to this theme, it also illuminates 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 needed to put the tormented soul at peace. In the case of Hamlet, the ghost creates mystery for the audience, generates death and betrayal in Denmark, and makes the play as a whole appear dark and gloomy. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay The ghost does not speak despite the efforts of Horace, Marcellus and Bernardo and such happiness creates suspense in the audience as they are unaware of the intentions and purpose of the ghost. However, the ghost is used late to warn Hamlet and the audience of his brother Claudius' murder of the king. The ghost finally speaks and says this to Hamlet: Avenge his foul and unnatural murder. The most disgusting murder, as in the best of cases, but this is more disgusting, strange and unnatural... A snake stung me. Thus all the ear of Denmark was violently abused due to a counterfeit trial of my death. But now, noble youth, the serpent that stung your father's life now wears his crown. These two statements undoubtedly reveal the culprit of the king's murder. It eludes to how the king was prematurely murdered and the revenge plot Hamlet will seek on his father's murderer. Even though the ghost appeared to be Hamlet's father, those who saw him were truly frightened. In the 16th century, a ghost might be thought of as a demon trying to deceive a naive subject. The first signs of fear appear when the ghost appears for the first time to Orazio, Marcello and Bernardo while they are on guard. The ghost appears to Horace but says nothing and then quickly disappears. Shortly afterwards, Marcellus and Horatio talk about the former king of Denmark and Fortinbras of Norway. The ghost appears a second time and Horace states: If there is any good to be done, this might give me relief and grace, speak to me. Horatio is openly asking the ghost if there is anything he can do to help him. the poor soul to resolve his most terrible situation. After Horace makes his proposal, a rooster crows and the ghost is forced to disappear because he cannot stay out in the sunlight. Orazio and Marcello also discover that their attempts to hit the ghost are futile. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay The ghost, more than anything else, plays the part of a developer. Develop plot, emotion, tone and mood. Shakespeare purposely created a disturbing and deadly theme for this tragedy and the ghost only fuels this invented sensation. The ghost influences all aspects of the work and is the key point on which the plot is formed. It also provides mystery to the plot, wonder to the characters, an added eeriness to the metaphysics of the work, and sets the tone for the entire work. The overall significance of the ghost is undoubtedly unmatched by any other character in the tragedy, for the ghost alone shapes and shapes one of the most magnificent works of Shakespeare known to English literature...