Skip to content

A good leg will fall, a straight back will stoop, a black…

“A good leg will fall, a straight back will stoop, a black beard will turn white, a curled pate will grow bald, a fair face will wither, a full eye will wax hollow. But a good heart...is the sun and moon...for it shines bright and never changes, but keeps its course truly. Henry V, Act V, Scene 2” quote by William Shakespeare
Download Open image
“A good leg will fall, a straight back will stoop, a black beard will turn white, a curled pate will grow bald, a fair face will wither, a full eye will wax hollow. But a good heart...is the sun and moon...for it shines bright and never changes, but keeps its course truly. Henry V, Act V, Scene 2”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Physical decline is inevitable, but a steadfast heart remains constant and guiding.

In simple terms: Body ages, but a good heart stays bright.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate inner virtue over external appearance.

Themes

mortality inner strength human nature

Mood

reflective inspirational philosophical

Type

literary ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • leadership training
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

heart sun and moon metaphor constancy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What inner qualities endure despite aging?
  • How can you nurture a steadfast heart?
A Different Perspective

Physical health can affect mental state, challenging constancy.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by William Shakespeare

Explore all 5,604 William Shakespeare quotes

More Beard quotes

Browse all 588 Beard quotes