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Contagion Quote by William Shakespeare

“All the contagion of the south light on you, You shames of Rome! you herd of--boils and plagues Plaster you o'er; that you may be abhorr'd Further than seen, and one infect another Against the wind a mile!” quote by William Shakespeare
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“All the contagion of the south light on you, You shames of Rome! you herd of--boils and plagues Plaster you o'er; that you may be abhorr'd Further than seen, and one infect another Against the wind a mile!”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: Julius Caesar, Act 3 Scene 1, 1599

Shakespeare condemns the moral decay of Rome, likening it to a spreading disease that corrupts everything it touches.

In simple terms: Rome is morally sick and spreading corruption.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and combat societal decay.

Themes

morality politics corruption decay

Mood

cautionary somber

Type

critical reflective

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • public health
  • civic engagement

Key Concepts

ethical decay political critique social disease

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does personal virtue affect societal health?
  • What can individuals do to halt moral contagion?
A Different Perspective

Even a small corrupt act can infect larger systems.

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