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But man, proud man, Dress'd in a little brief authority…

“But man, proud man, Dress'd in a little brief authority, Most ignorant of what he's most assur'd— His glassy essence—like an angry ape Plays such fantastic tricks before high heaven As makes the angels weep; who, with our spleens, Would all themselves laugh mortal.” quote by William Shakespeare
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““But man, proud man, Dress'd in a little brief authority, Most ignorant of what he's most assur'd— His glassy essence—like an angry ape Plays such fantastic tricks before high heaven As makes the angels weep; who, with our spleens, Would all themselves laugh mortal.””

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.

Human pride blinds us to our own ignorance, leading to absurd behavior that even divine beings find tragic.

In simple terms: Pride makes us act foolishly.

Key Takeaway

Recognize humility to avoid folly.

Themes

pride ignorance humor

Mood

reflective critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political leadership
  • social media
  • personal ego
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

human nature hubris divine perspective

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does pride affect your decisions?
  • Can humility change outcomes?
A Different Perspective

Humor may mask serious consequences of arrogance.

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