You are here

All Site ContentHamletAct 5Scene 2
Back to the Play
"answering a challenge"
Language
Act 5,
Scene 2
Lines 125-128

Discussion of the term "answer" in a fencing duel in Act 5, Scene 2 of myshakespeare's Hamlet.

Osric

he has laid on twelve for nine; and that would come to    
immediate trial if your lordship would vouchsafe the answer.

Hamlet   

How, if I answer no?

Osric

I mean, my lord, the opposition of your person in trial.

In the technical language of dueling, to “answer” a challenge meant to accept it. Therefore, Osric’s “answer” has unwittingly identified this fencing match for what it really is – a mortal duel.