Ambition Quote by William Shakespeare
“Ambition, the soldier's virtue, rather makes choice of loss, than gain which darkens him.”
About This Quote
Source Play: Henry V, Act 2, Scene 2
Ambition drives a soldier to prefer loss over gain, fearing that success will corrupt him.
In simple terms: Ambition can make one fear success.
Key Takeaway
Balance ambition with humility.
Themes
ambition
morality
war
self‑control
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- military leadership
- career decisions
- personal ambition
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- What losses are you willing to accept for growth?
- How does fear of success shape your choices?
A Different Perspective
Ambition can also motivate positive achievement.
