Question: In Hamlet's third soliloquy, what is the meaning of the word "slings?"
Answer: To be, or not to be, that is the question:
Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer
The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune,
Or to take arms against a sea of troubles,
And by opposing, end them.
Hamlet (3.1.64-68), Hamlet
Some argue that "slings" is a misprint of the intended word, "stings." "The stings of fortune" was a common saying in the Renaissance. However, in the context of the soliloquy, "slings" likely means "sling-shot" or "missile". This seems in keeping with the reference to "arrows" - both can do great harm. For a complete analysis of this soliloquy please visit my feature exploring Hamlet’s great speeches.
