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Paco2004 Posted 22 years ago
Grammar

Come your ways

Teachers

I know 'something comes your way' means 'something happens to you'. But what does it mean, 'come your ways', a phrase Shakespeare often used?

Hamlet Act 1 Scene 3
Polonius: For Lord Hamlet, believe so much in him, that he is young and with a larger tether may he walk than may be given you: in few, Ophelia, do not believe his vows; for they are brokers, not of that dye which their investments show, but mere implorators of unholy suits, breathing like sanctified and pious bawds, the better to beguile. This is for all: I would not, in plain terms, from this time forth, have you so slander any moment leisure, as to give words or talk with the Lord Hamlet. Look to't, I charge you: come your ways.
Ophelia: I shall obey, my lord.

Troilus Act 3
Pandarus: Come, come, what need you blush? shame's a baby. Here she is now: swear the oaths now to her that you have sworn to me. What, are you gone again? You must be watched ere you be made tame, must you? Come your ways, come your ways; an you draw backward.

Pericles Act 5
Boult: How's this? We must take another course with you. If your peevish chastity, which is not worth a breakfast in the cheapest country under the cope, shall undo a whole household, let me be gelded like a spaniel. Come your ways.
Marina: Whither would you have me?
Boult:I must have your maidenhead taken off, or the common hangman shall execute it. Come your ways. We'll have no more gentlemen driven away. Come your ways, I say.

Pericles Act 5
Boult: Come your ways. My masters, you say she's a virgin?
First Pirate: O! sir, we doubt it not.


paco.
  

Top answer

The modern version is "Come along" or "Come on", said in an encouraging tone to elicit cooperation. CJ

  • The modern version is "Come along" or "Come on", said in an encouraging tone to elicit cooperation.
  • CJ
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2 Answers
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The modern version is "Come along" or "Come on", said in an encouraging tone to elicit cooperation.

CJ
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CJ

Thank you as usual. You've helped me a lot!

paco

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