On this mounting the scaffold to be beheaded: I pray you Master Lieutenant, see me safely up, and for my coming down, let me shift for myself. To the executioner: Pick up thy spirits, Man, and be not afraid to do thy office; my neck is very short; take heed, therefore thou strike not awry, for saving of thy honesty.

Summary

In this quote, the speaker is about to be executed on the scaffold. They first ask the Lieutenant to help them climb up safely, but assert that they will manage their descent on their own. Then, addressing the executioner, they encourage him not to be afraid and to carry out his duty with confidence. They jokingly point out that their neck is short, implying that it will be easier for the executioner to strike accurately. In essence, this quote showcases the speaker's courage, humor, and acceptance of their fate, while also acknowledging the necessity for the executioner to perform their job with precision.

Topics