Sachiye Day

1.2. 265-281
Why does Hamlet tell Barnardo, Marcellus, and Horatio not to tell anyone about seeing the ghost of the late king?
My peers’ response to this question believe that Hamlet doesn’t want anyone to know about the ghost of the late king, because Hamlet doesn’t want Claudius to be aware of his father’s spirit. I agree with them. Also I think Hamlet’s immediate reaction to make sure the ghost of his father stays a secret reveals the perplexed situation in which the play takes place. There is a lot of distrust and ambiguity behind the motives of the King Claudius as he keeps quite about why there needs to be guards on watch and marries the Queen. Hamlet is simply being cautious as he is unsure if he is in danger. When first learning about the ghost of his father, he assumes it might be a bad sign, or as he exclaims, “All is not well” (1.2. 277). Hamlet’s request to Barnardo, Marcellus, and Horatio reveals the troubled times that Hamlet faces and evinces his prudent character.