But then I sigh; and, with a piece of Scripture, Tell them…
“But then I sigh; and, with a piece of Scripture, Tell them that God bids us do good for evil: And thus I clothe my naked villany With odd old ends stol'n forth of holy writ; And seem a saint when most I play the devil”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker mocks hypocrisy, using holy words to justify immoral deeds while pretending virtue.
In simple terms: People hide bad actions behind religious language.
Key Takeaway
Beware of false righteousness.
Themes
hypocrisy
religion
morality
deception
Mood
cynical
critical
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical.
When to use this quote
- political rhetoric
- personal justification
- public speeches
- media commentary
Key Concepts
ethical paradox
moral relativism
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you ever use noble language to excuse bad deeds?
- How can we discern genuine virtue from performance?
A Different Perspective
Religious justification can mask true intent.