Skip to content

Conscience is but a word that cowards use, devised at…

“Conscience is but a word that cowards use, devised at first to keep the strong in awe” quote by William Shakespeare
Download Open image
“Conscience is but a word that cowards use, devised at first to keep the strong in awe”

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.

Conscience is a tool used by cowards to intimidate the strong.

In simple terms: Cowards use conscience to control the powerful.

Key Takeaway

Question the use of conscience as a weapon.

Themes

morality power fear courage

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • political debate
  • personal decision making

Key Concepts

ethical philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is conscience a strength?
  • How does courage relate to moral choice?
A Different Perspective

Conscience can also guide genuine virtue.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by William Shakespeare

Explore all 5,604 William Shakespeare quotes

More Awe quotes

Browse all 1,119 Awe quotes