Apparel Quote by William Shakespeare
“Speak, what trade art thou? Why, sir, a carpenter. Where is thy leather apron and thy rule? What does thou with thy best apparel on?”
About This Quote
Source Play: Henry V, Act 2, Scene 2
The speaker questions a carpenter’s qualifications, using a pun on “trade” to highlight the absurdity of a craftsman in a non‑craft role.
In simple terms: A carpenter’s job is being mocked with wordplay.
Question assumptions about roles.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- job interviews
- career changes
- theatrical performances
- education
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines a “trade” in modern society?
- How does language shape perception of work?
Might be seen as mocking rather than constructive.