Skip to content

Argument Quote by William Shakespeare

“Rightly to be great Is not to stir without great argument, But greatly to find quarrel in a straw When honour's at the stake.” quote by William Shakespeare
Download Open image
“Rightly to be great Is not to stir without great argument, But greatly to find quarrel in a straw When honour's at the stake.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

True greatness lies in defending honor through principled debate, not in causing conflict for its own sake.

In simple terms: Defend honor, not provoke.

Key Takeaway

Honor demands thoughtful argument.

Themes

honor conflict principle courage integrity

Mood

determined reflective

Type

aphorism philosophical

When to use this quote

  • courtroom defense
  • political debate
  • family dispute resolution

Key Concepts

ethics rhetoric social responsibility

Practical Applications

  • ethical leadership training
  • conflict mediation workshops

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does defending a cause become aggression?
  • How can one choose battles wisely?
5.0 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by William Shakespeare

Explore all 5,604 William Shakespeare quotes

More Argument quotes

Browse all 3,479 Argument quotes