Hamilton The World Was Wide Enough

Summary

This intense script narrates the duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr, portraying their final moments. Burr reflects on the tension leading up to the duel, Hamilton's actions, and the deep emotions involved. The narrative dives into Burr's internal conflict, Hamilton’s legacy, and the haunting consequences of their confrontation. As the duel unfolds, Burr expresses regret and recognition of their shared fate, realizing that the world was vast enough for both of them. The story is layered with themes of legacy, loss, and the weight of history, leaving a powerful emotional impact.

Takeaways

• 🎯 Hamilton's second, Nathaniel Pendleton, and a doctor were present for the duel.
• 🤔 Burr observed Hamilton examining the terrain and reflected on his mental state.
• 💣 Burr believed Hamilton's political ambitions were poisoning him, while most disputes end without death.
• 🎯 Hamilton stood in the first position with a soldier's precision, raising suspicions with his actions.
• 👓 Burr noted that Hamilton was wearing his glasses, possibly to take deadly aim.
• 🔫 Burr expressed regret, confessing he was a poor shot and questioning his own legacy.
• ⚖️ As the duel neared its conclusion, Burr felt the weight of the moment, contemplating the impact on his daughter.
• 🕰 Hamilton reflected on death, legacy, and his role in shaping America's future as an immigrant.
• 😭 Burr struck Hamilton but felt an overwhelming sense of regret and guilt, realizing the consequences.
• 📜 Burr was left as the villain in history, realizing too late that the world was wide enough for both him and Hamilton.

Q & A

What is the context of the script provided?

The script is a lyrical transcript from the musical *Hamilton*, focusing on the duel between Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. It narrates the events leading up to and following the fatal duel.

Who is narrating the majority of the script?

The script is narrated from the perspective of Aaron Burr, as he reflects on the duel with Hamilton and the emotional and historical weight of the moment.

What is Burr's emotional state during the duel?

Burr is conflicted, feeling a mixture of regret, tension, and determination. He questions Hamilton's motives, reflects on the potential legacy of his actions, and ultimately feels remorse after the fatal shot.

What does Burr mean when he says, 'The world was wide enough for both Hamilton and me'?

This line expresses Burr's deep regret, acknowledging that the conflict did not need to end in Hamilton's death. He realizes too late that there was enough room in the world for both of their ambitions.

Why does Burr reflect on Hamilton wearing glasses during the duel?

Burr interprets Hamilton's decision to wear glasses as a sign that Hamilton intended to aim to kill, heightening the tension and Burr's suspicion that Hamilton was serious about the duel.

How does Burr view his legacy after the duel?

Burr believes that his legacy will be forever tainted by his role in Hamilton's death. He expresses regret, realizing that history will paint him as the villain, even though he survived the duel.

What does the phrase 'Death doesn't discriminate' signify in the script?

This line reflects the inevitability of death and its impartial nature, affecting both 'sinners and saints.' It underscores the tragic and unpredictable nature of fate, particularly in the duel's outcome.

How does Hamilton's death affect Burr personally?

Burr feels a deep sense of guilt and loss. While Hamilton is killed, Burr is left to live with the consequences of his actions, feeling that he has paid for it emotionally and historically.

What role does Hamilton's son play in this part of the musical?

Hamilton's son, who had died in an earlier duel, is referenced by Hamilton during his final moments. Hamilton seems to draw a connection between his son's death and his own imminent fate.

What is the significance of the 'other side' mentioned in the script?

The 'other side' symbolizes the afterlife or a spiritual realm where Hamilton envisions reuniting with his loved ones, including his son, mother, and friends. It represents peace and closure beyond death.