How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Page)
Quote #10
This was not to be a duel between mere men, so to speak, but a duel between two mighty magicians; a duel not of muscle but of mind, not of human skill but of superhuman art and craft; a final struggle for supremacy between the two master enchanters of the age. (39.3)
Twain explains the stakes in the battle with Sir Sagramor, and weapons don't seem to enter into it. Enchanters in this case is a little misleading, though. While they both have their tricks, Hank's use real practical know-how—rope tricks actually work—while Merlin's are based on hogwash.
Quote #11
I suppressed the book and hanged the author. (40.2)
This is a joke from Twain—Hank hangs Sir Dinadan for writing a book of bad jokes—but it also suggests that Hank's dedication to free ideas is more self-serving than he lets on. As with earlier passages, Hank may be bright, but his wisdom sometimes lags behind.