A microtome method and apparatus includes a microtome blade configured to oscillate in a direction transverse to a direction of advancing a cut, and a first flexure to support and guide the blade. The first flexure is compliant in the transverse direction while being stiff in the cut direction. A second flexure operatively engaged at one end portion with the first flexure, is stiff in the transverse direction while being compliant in the cut direction. The other end portion of the second flexure is rotatably engaged by an eccentric driven by a rotatable actuator, which oscillates the blade in the transverse direction while effectively isolating non-transverse motion from the blade. The second flexure is configured to move independently of any guides or other stationary objects during oscillation.