Hamlet, Act 4, Scene 6 summary
Act 4, Scene 6 of 20 · 2 min to read the scene
In Act 4, Scene 6, Horatio receives a letter from Hamlet describing his capture by pirates and asking him to help sailors deliver messages to the King. Horatio agrees to help them quickly and then follow them to Hamlet, who promises private news about Rosencrantz and Guildenstern.
What happens
- A servant tells Horatio that sailors bring letters, and Horatio orders their admission.
- The First Sailor gives Horatio a letter from Hamlet.
- Hamlet’s letter describes a pirate attack, his boarding of their ship, and his capture when the ships separate.
- Hamlet requests help delivering letters to the King and urges Horatio to come to him for private news.
- Horatio leaves with the sailors to arrange delivery and reach Hamlet.
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In this scene
What to notice
Hamlet describes unexpected kindness from his captors. His explanation connects that kindness to their expectation of repayment.
Quick check
Why does Hamlet become the pirates’ only prisoner?
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