Death and the King's Horseman Principles Quotes

How we cite our quotes: Act.Line

Quote #1

My rein is loosened.
I am master of my Fate. When the hour comes
Watch me dance along the narrowing path
Glazed by the soles of my great precursors.
My soul is eager. I shall not turn aside. (1.36)

Elesin is trying to convince everyone that he is going to greet his fate cheerfully and without hesitation. But what's that quote from Hamlet about protesting too much again?

Quote #2

… Life is honour.
It ends when honour ends. (1.44)

Interesting, right? You know—since Elesin's honor actually goes away before he dies. Of course, he probably means that one can live on through their reputation, even after physical life is over… but an alternate reading is that if you overstay life's welcome, you are bound for destruction.

Quote #3

We know you for a man of honour. (1.45)

This is a constant refrain among the market women, including Iyaloja. They utter the phrase as a sign of respect and to affirm they know Elesin will do the right thing… right Elesin? Right?