Act 1 Scene 4

In this short scene, Marcellus and Horatio are taking Hamlet to see the Ghost. As they wait outside, Hamlet comments on how Claudius is celebrating his coronation by drinking and comments on how this disgusts him. He starts talking about how one fault can destroy a man, but he is suddenly interrupted by the ghost's appearance. The ghost beckons to Hamlet, and he follows. Marcellus and Horatio try to convince him not to follow, but Hamlet threatens to kill anyone who gets in his way. Hamlet leaves, and Marcellus and Horatio follow.

Horatio, how do you feel about Hamlet? Do you respect him or are you concerned for his well being. Why is Claudius making such a big raucous deal about his coronation? Isn't that a bit strange... Also, Hamlet, why are you so determined to follow this ghost? You must believe it is your father, but is it really worth threatening death to anyone who gets in your way? What would it mean to you if the ghost was your father? What would you do if it weren't?

As Hamlet pursues the Ghost, Horatio says that "He waxes desperate with imagination." This line makes me wonder if Horatio is still unconvinced of the Ghost's existence. With this line, Horatio seems as if he is the only one who isn't fully convinced of the ghost and the terror he holds over others. It makes Horatio seem like one of the only constant and sane characters in the show so far. He seems like one of the characters that will survive this tragedy.