Do you bite your thumb at us, sir? SAMPSON [Aside to…
![“Do you bite your thumb at us, sir? SAMPSON [Aside to Gregory]: Is the law of our side, if I say ay? GREGORY [Aside to Sampson]: No. SAMPSON: No, sir, I do not bite my thumb at you, sir, but I bite my thumb, sir.” quote by William Shakespeare](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/1d0/william-shakespeare-4_insult_do-you-bite-your-thumb-at-us-sir-sampson_1439987.jpg)
““Do you bite your thumb at us, sir? SAMPSON [Aside to Gregory]: Is the law of our side, if I say ay? GREGORY [Aside to Sampson]: No. SAMPSON: No, sir, I do not bite my thumb at you, sir, but I bite my thumb, sir.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A character pretends to obey the law while subtly mocking his opponent, highlighting the tension between appearance and intent.
In simple terms: A person pretends to follow rules while mocking.
Key Takeaway
Beware of hidden sarcasm.
Themes
politics
humor
conflict
pretence
authority
Mood
ironic
critical
playful
Type
dialogue
dramatic
When to use this quote
- court negotiations
- political debates
- team meetings
- online discussions
Key Concepts
social dynamics
power play
verbal irony
Questions to Reflect On
- What motives drive such feigned compliance?
- How does this affect trust?
A Different Perspective
The sarcasm may be misread as genuine compliance.