The ghost of Hamlet's father appears twice in Act I and once in Act III. Each appearance increases his power. When skeptical Horatio perceives him "like the King," he gives the ghost some credibilty.
After learning about invasion by the army of Fortinbras, combined with some other current events, Horatio concludes that the ghost has an urgent matter, and asks him to speak if he is "privy to thy country's fate..." Horatio thinks the ghost may have appeared since he has "extorted treasure/For which....spirits oft walk in death..." and not to inform him. The ghost fades, leaving Horatio doubting his purpose. Intuitively, though, Horatio thinks that the ghost will speak to Hamlet, so the ghost's position is strengthened some.
When Hamlet learns of the ghost he is open to its existence, but cautious when beckoned. Doubt is dispelled when the ghost gives Hamlet details of his death saying he must walk the earth until the "foul crimes...Are burnt and purg'd away." Hamlet believes and swears his friends to secrecy as the ghost, under the stage, commands them by Hamlet's sword. He is now active.
In A. II, sc. iv, the ghost reappears and talks to Hamlet while the Queen cannot see or hear him, thus establishing her involvement in evil.
The ghost's not appearing at the end of the play creates an ambiguity that leaves the reader to wonder if the ghost's role is to prick the spirit of the melancholy Hamlet into action for him.
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