Hamilton - Aaron Burr, Sir / My Shot (Original Cast 2016 - Live)

Summary

The script features Alexander Hamilton meeting Aaron Burr in 1776 New York City, eager to seek advice on fast-tracking his education and joining the revolution. They encounter John Laurens, Lafayette, and Hercules Mulligan, who are all fired up about the impending revolution. Hamilton delivers a passionate declaration of ambition, emphasizing his determination to rise above his humble origins. With themes of youthful rebellion, ambition, and revolution, the scene captures their desire for independence, equality, and personal freedom, as Hamilton vows he will not 'throw away his shot.'

Takeaways

• 😀 Alexander Hamilton introduces himself to Aaron Burr and expresses admiration for Burr's academic achievements.
• 😟 Hamilton confesses that he punched the bursar, seeking an accelerated study at Princeton.
• 🧐 Burr shares that he graduated quickly due to his parents' dying wish, and Hamilton connects with him as both are orphans.
• 💡 Burr advises Hamilton to 'talk less' and 'smile more' to avoid making enemies and getting ahead.
• 🥳 John Laurens, Lafayette, and Hercules Mulligan join in, introducing themselves as fellow revolutionaries.
• 🎉 They each share their revolutionary goals, with Lafayette advocating for the end of monarchy, and Mulligan highlighting his role as a tailor and a revolutionary.
• 💥 Hamilton declares his ambition, revealing his hunger for change and his determination to prove himself in the upcoming revolution.
• ⚡ Hamilton and his new group express their collective desire for freedom from British rule and the formation of an independent nation.
• 🔥 Hamilton's famous mantra, 'I am not throwing away my shot,' reflects his unyielding ambition to seize every opportunity to make history.
• 🕊 The song concludes with a call to rise up, fight for independence, and secure a future for the next generation.

Q & A

Who are the main characters introduced at the beginning of the transcript?

The main characters introduced at the beginning are Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr.

What is the first interaction between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr?

Hamilton introduces himself to Burr and explains that he has been looking for him after hearing his name at Princeton.

Why does Hamilton say he punched the bursar at Princeton?

Hamilton says he punched the bursar because he got into a disagreement with a buddy of Burr's while seeking an accelerated course of study.

What advice does Aaron Burr give to Alexander Hamilton during their conversation?

Aaron Burr advises Hamilton to 'talk less' and 'smile more,' warning him not to let people know what he stands for.

How does Hamilton feel about Burr’s advice to 'talk less and smile more'?

Hamilton is skeptical and dismissive of Burr's advice, expressing that he doesn't take it seriously.

Who interrupts Hamilton and Burr’s conversation with the phrase 'Showtime!'?

John Laurens interrupts the conversation with the phrase 'Showtime!' and introduces himself as a revolutionary fighter.

What does Lafayette say about the monarchy in his introduction?

Lafayette expresses his desire for life without a monarchy and believes that unrest in France will lead to anarchy.

What is Hercules Mulligan’s role, and how does he introduce himself?

Hercules Mulligan is a tailor's apprentice, and he introduces himself by emphasizing his desire to join the rebellion and socially advance instead of sewing pants.

What is the significance of the repeated phrase 'I am not throwing away my shot'?

The phrase 'I am not throwing away my shot' reflects Hamilton’s determination to seize every opportunity and make a name for himself, despite the challenges he faces.

How does Hamilton reflect on the potential consequences of winning independence in the final part of the transcript?

Hamilton contemplates whether the bloodshed of the revolution will guarantee freedom for future generations or lead to an endless cycle of vengeance and death.