d ominous sign that “the time is out of joint.” (Hamlet. 1.5, l.190) When Hamlet first hears of his father’s ghost, he remarks: “My father’s spirit in arms! All is not well; / I doubt some foul play.” (Hamlet. 1.2, l.253-254) Hamlet is aware that the appearance of ghosts is unnatural and warns of coming disaster. He understands that supernatural beings don’t exist unless they have unsettled business to take care of. Thus, when the ghost reveals the true circumstances of the king’s death, events really seem to be “out of joint.” The murder of a brother is a despicable crime, and when it is committed something is terribly wrong with civilization. The ghost urges Hamlet to seek revenge for his “foul and most unnatural murder.” (Hamlet. 1.5, l.25) This request establishes the dominant theme of revenge, which is prevalent throughout the play. Hamlet agrees to the ghost’s orders and decides to put on an “antic disposition” for all to see during the duration of his plan.“The time is out of joint; O cursed spite, /That ever I was born to set it right!” (Hamlet. 1.5, l.190-191) At the end of Act 1, Hamlet is aware of Claudius’ treachery and has promised to avenge the murder of his father. He is aware of the various levels of disorder in Denmark and takes the responsibility of planning to restore order to the state. He decides to feign madness to gain more freedom of action and to escape the too-close observation of those whom he himself wishes to watch. By examining the chaos within the supernatural, moral and political aspects of Denmark’s society and the corrupt relationships of Hamlet’s life it has been proven that thus far Hamlet’s antic disposition has not been effective in his plan to restore order to the state. In fact, he is defeating his own purpose because his eccentricities have caused the king to...
