Glimpses of the Moon

In “Hamlet”, Act 1, Scene 4, the phrase “revisits thus the glimpses of the moon” is used in a more literal and yet equally symbolic sense. When it is said that the ghost of Hamlet’s father “revisits thus the glimpses of the moon,” it refers to the ghost’s appearances at night under the moonlight. The moon here acts as a backdrop for the supernatural and eerie return of the dead king. This usage also touches on themes of the unnatural or the disturbed natural order, as it is unusual for the dead to ‘revisit’ the living. The moon, with its changing phases and association with the night, adds an element of mystery and otherworldliness to the ghost’s appearances.

from Hamlet Act 1, Scene 4 (the ghost of Hamlet’s father appears under moonlight)

To cast thee up again. What may this mean
That thou, dead corse, again in complete steel,
Revisits thus the glimpses of the moon,
Making night hideous, and we fools of nature
So horridly to shake our disposition
With thoughts beyond the reaches of our souls?
Say, why is this? Wherefore? What should we do?

Setting Moon over the Tucson Mountains, Tucson, Pima County, Arizona

How might we “Glimpse the Moon” while we can?

Reflect on Past Experiences

The moon, often a symbol of change and cycles, could represent past moments or phases in life. “Revisiting the glimpses of the moon” might suggest looking back on these moments, reflecting on past experiences, emotions, or lessons learned.

Appreciate Transitory Beauty

The moon is not always fully visible; it appears in phases and sometimes only offers a glimpse. This phrase could suggest appreciating the fleeting, transient moments of beauty in life, much like the ephemeral view of the moon on a cloudy night.

Seek Clarity and Understanding

The moon is often associated with mystery and the unknown. To revisit its glimpses might mean to seek deeper understanding or clarity about something that is not fully understood or seen clearly, just as the moon often reveals itself only partially.

Reconnect with Nature or the Universe

This phrase might also imply a reconnecting with the natural world or the broader universe. The moon has been a constant in human history, inspiring awe and wonder; revisiting its glimpses could be a metaphor for reconnecting with these greater forces or finding one’s place in the universe.

Contemplate Cycles of Renewal and Change

Since the moon goes through phases, the phrase could also symbolize the idea of renewal and the cyclical nature of life. It suggests a recurring opportunity to start anew or to view things from a different perspective, as each phase of the moon brings a different view.