Skip to content

Ancient Quote by William Shakespeare

“If I can catch him once upon the hip, I will feed fat the ancient grudge I bear him.” quote by William Shakespeare
Download Open image
“If I can catch him once upon the hip, I will feed fat the ancient grudge I bear him.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: Henry IV, Part 1, Act 2, Scene 2, 1597

A speaker threatens to retaliate against an opponent, promising harsh revenge if provoked again.

In simple terms: Threat of revenge if provoked.

Key Takeaway

Beware of escalating conflicts.

Themes

conflict revenge pride

Mood

tense defiant

Type

dramatic warning

When to use this quote

  • political rivalry
  • personal vendetta
  • court intrigue

Key Concepts

honor ego power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What consequences arise from seeking vengeance?
  • How can restraint change the outcome?
A Different Perspective

Revenge may worsen the original grievance.

2.5 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by William Shakespeare

Explore all 5,604 William Shakespeare quotes

More Ancient quotes

Browse all 2,415 Ancient quotes