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All Site ContentHamletAct 5Scene 1
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"confess thyself"
Allusion
Act 5,
Scene 1
Lines 34-42

An explanation of the proverbial phrase, “confess thyself,” in Act 5, Scene 1 of myShakespeare’s Hamlet.

First Gravedigger 

Why, art a heathen? How dost thou understand the
Scripture? The Scripture says Adam digged. Could    
he dig without arms? I'll put another question to thee.
If thou answerest me not to the purpose, confess thyself.    

Second Gravedigger   

Go to.

First Gravedigger

What is he that builds stronger than either the mason, 
the shipwright, or the carpenter?

Second Gravedigger

The gallows-maker, for that frame outlives a thousand
tenants.

Here, the First Gravedigger alludes to the proverbial phrase, “Confess thyself and be hanged.” This proverb sets up the next joke involving the gallows-maker.