1.4 Arg, a Ghost.
Thesis: Are Rosencrantz and Guildenstern really there as human entities?
Reason: Yes – It is clear that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are present as they are spoken to by many of the main characters of the play as they are old friends, or have at least visited the castle before.
Example: King gives orders to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern (4.1.1-45)
- “Friends both, go join you with some further aid.”
Example: Hamlet speaks with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern (2.2.220-388)
- ” We’ll wait upon you”
- “No such matter. I will not sort you with the rest of my servants”
Reason: No- It is clear that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern must be spirits of some kind, as no one can tell them apart or identify them, as if they are not quite sure who and what they really are.
Example: The King and Queen refer to them by different names when addressing them. (2.2.33-34)
- ” Thanks Rosencrantz and gentle Guildenstern”
- ” Thanks Guildenstern and gentle Rosencrantz”
Example: Hamlet refers to both of them by either Rosencrantz or Guildenstern (2.2.225-230)
Reason: No- it is implicitly stated in the play that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are dead, and no one takes notice.
Example: An ambassador tells Horatio that Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are ‘dead’ (5.2.372)
- “That Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are dead”
Example: Horatio then begins telling the story of Hamlet. (5.2. 375-387)
