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I have no spur To prick the sides of my intent, but only…

“I have no spur To prick the sides of my intent, but only Vaulting ambition, which o'erleaps itself And falls on the other.” quote by William Shakespeare
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““I have no spur To prick the sides of my intent, but only Vaulting ambition, which o'erleaps itself And falls on the other.””

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.

Ambition can drive one beyond limits, leading to self‑destruction.

In simple terms: Overreaching ambition causes downfall.

Key Takeaway

Temper ambition with realistic goals.

Themes

ambition hubris self‑destruction human flaw

Mood

cautionary dramatic

Type

literary psychological

When to use this quote

  • career ambition
  • political power
  • personal goals

Key Concepts

tragic flaw psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What checks can prevent ambition from becoming hubris?
  • How does ambition shape personal identity?
A Different Perspective

Ambition may be necessary for achievement.

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