Courtesy Quote by William Shakespeare
“Dissembling courtesy! How fine this tyrant can trickle when she wounds!”
About This Quote
Source Play: The Taming of the Shrew, Act 3, Scene 2
A sarcastic remark exposing how a tyrant’s politeness can become a weapon when she is hurt.
In simple terms: Politeness can hide cruelty when someone is wounded.
Beware hidden hostility behind forced courtesy.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- courtroom negotiations
- political debates
- personal conflicts
- team leadership
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does courtesy change when someone feels threatened?
- When does politeness become manipulation?
Politeness may be a mask, but intent remains harmful.