Plague Quote by Anthony Ashley-Cooper, 7th Earl of Shaftesbury
“Tis the strumpet's plague To beguile many, and be beguiled by one.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: The Spectator, 1711
A warning that those who manipulate many become vulnerable to being manipulated by a single individual.
In simple terms: Manipulators can be outwitted by one clever opponent.
Beware of overconfidence in influence.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political campaigns
- business negotiations
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does overreaching affect one's safety?
- Can a single adversary overturn many?
Power can be fragile when spread thin.