But Shakespeare knows what the sphinx thinks, if anybody…
“But Shakespeare knows what the sphinx thinks, if anybody does. His genius is penetrative as cold midwinter entering every room, and making warmth shiver in ague fits. I think Shakespeare never errs in his logical sequence in character. He surprises us, seems unnatural to us, but because we have been superficial observers; while genius will disclose those truths to which we are blind.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Shakespeare’s insight penetrates deeply, revealing truths hidden from superficial observers.
In simple terms: Shakespeare sees hidden truths.
Value deep analysis.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- reading classic plays
- teaching literature
- writing analysis
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does deep analysis change your view?
- What truths are missed by surface reading?
May overlook emotional nuance.