Ambition Quote by William Shakespeare
“Farewell the plumed troop, and the big wars That make ambition virtue! O, farewell! Farewell the neighing steed and the shrill trump, The spirit-stirring drum, th' ear-piercing fife, The royal banner, and all quality, Pride, pomp, and circumstance of glorious war!”
About This Quote
Source Play: Henry V, Act 2, Scene 3
The speaker bids farewell to the pomp and glory of war, recognizing its emptiness.
In simple terms: Saying goodbye to war's flashy trappings.
Key Takeaway
Consider the true cost of ambition.
Themes
war
glory
ambition
Mood
melancholic
reflective
Type
poetic
historical
When to use this quote
- military service
- political leadership
- peace activism
Key Concepts
military history
human cost
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “virtue” mean without war?
- Can peace be as stirring as battle?
A Different Perspective
War may still be seen as noble by some.
