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The hand that hath made you fair hath made you good. Pity…

“The hand that hath made you fair hath made you good. Pity is the virtue of the law, and none but tyrants use it cruelly.” quote by William Shakespeare
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“The hand that hath made you fair hath made you good. Pity is the virtue of the law, and none but tyrants use it cruelly.”

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 beauty and moral goodness are linked; pity is a legal virtue misused by tyrants.

In simple terms: Beauty and goodness connect; tyrants misuse pity.

Key Takeaway

Recognize true virtue beyond appearance.

Themes

ethics law beauty power

Mood

thoughtful cautionary dramatic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • courtroom drama
  • political discourse
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

moral philosophy justice human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • What is the role of pity in justice?
  • Can beauty be a moral compass?
A Different Perspective

Pity can be weaponized by those in power.

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