abstract illustration of Sir John Falstaff's face flanked by those of Miss Ford and Miss Page set against a wall of trees

The Merry Wives of Windsor

by William Shakespeare

Start Free Trial

"The World's Mine Oyster"

Download PDF PDF Page Citation Cite Share Link Share

Context: This famous saying is associated with eager, ambitious, even arrogant youth. It is usually heard today in a modified form, "the world's his oyster," about a young man who cannot wait to conquer the world. In the play, Pistol, a braggart follower of Sir John Falstaff, a self-fancied lady-killer, refuses to do Sir John a service the latter requests. Now, at the Garter Inn, Pistol asks a loan of Sir John, who indignantly refuses. Pistol, only half in jest, whips out his sword, and compares the fat, round knight to the world and his purse to an oyster.


FALSTAFF
I will not lend thee a penny.
PISTOL
Why then the world's mine oyster,
Which I with sword will open.
FALSTAFF
Not a penny. . . .

Get Ahead with eNotes

Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.

Get 48 Hours Free Access
Previous

"The Short And The Long Of It"

Next

"Vengeance Of Jenny's Case"