Hamlet Act 1, Scene 1 Vocabulary and Glosses

Vocabulary and line glosses from the opening sentinel scene of Shakespeare's Hamlet.

Carefully upon your hour

Right at the scheduled time; showing punctuality on watch duty.

For this relief much thanks

Thank you for coming to take the next shift and giving me a break.

Sick at heart

Experiencing deep distress, unease, or melancholy.

Have you had quiet guard?

Have you had a quiet time on watch duty?

Not a mouse stirring

Completely peaceful, still, and quiet, with no movement or disturbance.

Bid them make haste

Tell them to hurry.