Provided is an endoscope with a handle, an endoscope shaft connected to the handle, and imaging optics arranged in the endoscope shaft. An object can be located in the direction of view of the imaging optics in front of the endoscope shaft. The endoscope may also include a swivellably housed deflecting element that sets the desired direction of view. The deflecting element can be positioned at the distal end of the endoscope shaft facing away from the handle. An actuating element can be attached to the handle, which is mechanically connected to the deflecting element, and with which the swivel position of the deflecting element can be changed in order to set a desired direction of view.