Why, thou knowest I am as valiant as Hercules, but beware…
“Why, thou knowest I am as valiant as Hercules, but beware instinct. The lion will not touch the true prince. Instinct is a great matter. I was a coward on instinct.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He warns that instinct can betray even the bravest, comparing it to a lion that avoids the true prince, suggesting caution against unexamined impulses.
In simple terms: Instinct can mislead the brave; beware impulsive decisions.
Question your gut reactions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- military command
- personal dilemmas
- political strategy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you trust instinct versus reason?
- What are the costs of acting on instinct?
Instinct is not always rational and can cause cowardice.