The play opens up on a platform before the castle at "Elsinore," Copenhagen, Denmark.
Bernardo and Francisco are soldiers on night duty. Bernardo says: "Who's there?" Francisco says: "Nay, answer me; stand and unfold yourself."
The ghost of Hamlet's father appears to the night officers, and also to Horatio and Marcellus, but will not speak. They reveal the wonderful story to Hamlet, who makes ready to see and talk to the Ghost the next night at twelve o'clock.
In the meantime, the king, queen and courtiers gather at the grand throne of the castle and talk of the late king.
Hamlet is moody and sad, and will not be comforted, although persuaded by King Claudius and his mother.
Claudius addressing Hamlet, says:
"But, now my nephew Hamlet, and my son
How is it that the clouds still hang on you?"
Hamlet says (aside):
"A little more than kin and less than kind.
Not so, my lord; I am too much in the sun."
Hamlet's mother rebukes him about grieving for his father, and says: