Authenticity Quote by Howard Jacobson
“It was reading Hamlet that ruined the concept of authenticity for me, not because Hamlet lacked existentialist credentials himself - indeed, as an earlier discontented Dane, he could be said to have laid the ground for Kierkegaard - but because the line 'to thine own self be true' was spoken by that humourless old ninny, Polonius.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Vulture Manifesto by Howard Jacobson, 2005
The quote reflects how reading Hamlet altered the author's view of authenticity, highlighting the irony of Polonius' advice.
In simple terms: Hamlet changed the author's view on being true to oneself.
Key Takeaway
Question the source of advice you follow.
Themes
authenticity
literature
philosophy
Mood
thoughtful
skeptical
Type
analytical
critical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- literary analysis
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
existentialism
irony
influence
Questions to Reflect On
- What does authenticity mean to you?
- How do you assess the reliability of advice?
A Different Perspective
The advice comes from a character known for hypocrisy, challenging its credibility.
