With the single exception of Homer, there is no eminent…
“With the single exception of Homer, there is no eminent writer, not even Sir Walter Scott, whom I can despise so entirely as I despise Shakespeare when I measure my mind against his. . . . It would positively be a relief to me to dig him up and throw stones at him.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Shaw expresses a deep, personal disdain for Shakespeare, feeling his own intellect cannot measure up to Shakespeare's, leading to a desire to symbolically 'dig him up' and criticize him.
In simple terms: Intellectual rivalry with Shakespeare
Key Takeaway
Shakespeare's dominance can provoke strong negative reactions
Themes
Literary criticism
Ego and self-comparison
Cultural canon
Personal taste
Intellectual humility
Mood
Irritation
Contempt
Reflective
Type
Opinion
Critique
Reflection
When to use this quote
- Academic debate about classic authors
- Personal reflection on artistic influence
- Discussions on literary can
- Creative writing workshops
- Philosophical essays on taste
Key Concepts
Shakespeare's legacy
Shaw's self-perception
Literary hierarchy
Critique of reverence
Practical Applications
- Analyzing personal bias in literary criticism
- Teaching critical thinking about cultural icons
Questions to Reflect On
- Why does Shakespeare evoke such strong feelings in some readers?
- How does personal ego shape our judgments of great works?
A Different Perspective
Some argue that Shakespeare's universal appeal outweighs individual dislike, suggesting that personal bias should not diminish his contributions.