Skip to content

Depression Quote by William Shakespeare

“Call it not patience, Gaunt; it is despair:” quote by William Shakespeare
Download Open image
““Call it not patience, Gaunt; it is despair:””

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: Hamlet, Act III, Scene 2, 1603

The character warns that what appears as patience may actually be a form of despair.

In simple terms: Patience can hide deep hopelessness.

Key Takeaway

Recognize when patience masks despair.

Themes

psychology emotions illusion literature

Mood

thoughtful somber introspective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal crises
  • mental health
  • relationship conflicts

Key Concepts

existential dread self‑deception

Questions to Reflect On

  • When have you mistaken patience for despair?
  • How does this insight affect your coping strategies?
A Different Perspective

The line is context‑specific to Hamlet’s dialogue and may not apply universally.

2.6 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by William Shakespeare

Explore all 5,607 William Shakespeare quotes

More Depression quotes

Browse all 4,914 Depression quotes