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All Site ContentHamletAct 5Scene 1
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"ass"
Allusion
Act 5,
Scene 1
Lines 53-56

An explanation of the First Gravedigger’s wordplay in Act 5, Scene 1 of myShakespeare’s Hamlet.

First Gravedigger

Cudgel thy brains no more about it, for your dull ass 
will not mend his pace with beating; and when you    
are asked this question next, say "a grave-maker." The
houses he makes lasts till doomsday. Go, get thee to

This line recalls a common proverb of the time, “a dull ass requires a sharp spur.” The First Gravedigger is comparing the Second Gravedigger to an ass; beating (or cudgeling) his brains, won’t make them think any faster.