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Beard Quote by William Shakespeare

“A lean cheek; which you have not: a blue eye, and sunken; which you have not: an unquestionable spirit; which you have not: a beard neglected; which you have not: — but I pardon you for that; for, simply, your having1 in beard is a younger brother's revenue: — Then your hose should be ungarter'd…” quote by William Shakespeare
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“A lean cheek; which you have not: a blue eye, and sunken; which you have not: an unquestionable spirit; which you have not: a beard neglected; which you have not: — but I pardon you for that; for, simply, your having1 in beard is a younger brother's revenue: — Then your hose should be ungarter'd, your bonnet unhanded, your sleeve unbuttoned, your shoe untied, and every thing about you demonstrating a careless desolation.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: The Merry Wives of Windsor, 1602

The speaker mocks a disheveled appearance, equating neglect with a carefree, almost rebellious attitude.

In simple terms: Messy looks reflect a carefree, rebellious style.

Key Takeaway

Embrace authenticity over perfection.

Themes

appearance rebellion humor

Mood

playful satirical

Type

literary humorous

When to use this quote

  • fashion choices
  • personal style
  • social gatherings
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

social norms self-expression

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does casual style become inappropriate?
  • How does appearance affect perception?
A Different Perspective

Such neglect can be seen as disrespectful in formal settings.

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