The Clever Bluff: Humperdinck’s Subservience in The Princess Bride

In the climactic scene of The Princess Bride, we see a fascinating blend of intimidation, psychological manipulation, and narrative devices that highlight a pivotal moment in the film's storytelling. Let’s delve into the reasons behind Humperdinck's decision to sit when Westley points his sword at him.

Intimidation and Authority

Despite being weakened and seemingly incapacitated, Westley displays unexpected authority and confidence. The mere act of pointing a sword at Humperdinck signals that Westley is in control of the situation. Humperdinck, aware of Westley's reputation and capabilities, realizes he is in a precarious position. This moment exemplifies Westley's triumph over adversity and reinforces the theme of good overcoming evil, even when the odds seem stacked against the hero.

Psychological Manipulation

Humperdinck, a character driven by a desire for power and control, is also acutely aware of his vulnerabilities. In this critical moment, he recognizes that resistance could lead to immediate danger. Compliance, on the other hand, neutralizes the threat and avoids a confrontation that could end poorly for him. Humperdinck's decision to sit is a psychological ploy to escape a dangerous standoff, showcasing his nuanced understanding of power dynamics in a high-stakes situation.

Narrative Device

From a storytelling perspective, this scene serves to highlight Westley's resilience and cunning. It underscores the hero's ability to use wit and strategic thinking in the face of daunting odds. When Westley stands to “call” Humperdinck, similar to a game of poker, Humperdinck's weak resolve and lack of courage are revealed. He sits and allows himself to be tied up rather than face the possibility of a brutally painful fight. This moment is a masterful use of narrative to emphasize the story's themes of courage and cleverness in the face of tyranny.

Humperdinck: A Cowardly Villain

Humperdinck is a character at heart a bully and a coward. He portrays strength by showing off his prowess in hunting and tracking, but his true nature is revealed when he avoids witnessing Rugen's test of The Machine. This cowardice underscores his weakness and reinforces the idea that he is not fit to rule.

Bravery vs. Cowardice

Westley's cleverness is evident in his victory over Vizzini, and he understands that he is not strong enough for an outright duel. Moreover, Inigo is not nearby to take on Humperdinck. So, Westley bluffs. He describes, in exquisite detail, his plan to humiliate and punish Humperdinck, ensuring that death would be denied to him. Even brave men face significant challenges when faced with the loss of limb, disfigurement, or disability, but Humperdinck is not one of them. His willingness to comply with Westley's command highlights his lack of true bravery.

Remember, this is satire. It uses humor and absurdity to make its point and inform the audience about the true nature of its characters. Humperdinck's abrupt subservience is absurdly illustrative of his cowardly nature, a critical aspect of the satire's commentary on power, control, and the facade of courage.

The scene in The Princess Bride is a perfect blend of character development, narrative technique, and thematic exploration, making it a standout moment in the film.