Hamlet: Essay On Act I Act one of HAMLET is an excellent introductory act. Shakespeare establishes atmosphere, by introducing the major characters, the role of the supernatural, the revenge plot, the love plot, and the contrast of the Fortinbras plot, as well as Hamlet's fiegned madness. Through his unique writing style, Shakespeare sets us up for the rest of the story, and captures the reader's attention, making him want read more. Shakespeare establishes the atmosphere of the play, in scene I. The scene takes place in Elsinore, on a platform before the castle. The atmosphere is one of dark battlements,