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Conquer Quote by William Shakespeare

“That England, that was wont to conquer others, Hath made a shameful conquest of itself.” quote by William Shakespeare
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“That England, that was wont to conquer others, Hath made a shameful conquest of itself.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: Henry V, Act 2 Scene 2, 1599

England’s history of conquest leads to self‑destruction, a shameful outcome of its own ambition.

In simple terms: Conquest can turn inward, causing self‑harm.

Key Takeaway

Beware of overreaching ambition.

Themes

hubris imperialism self‑destruction

Mood

cautionary reflective

Type

historical political

When to use this quote

  • national policy
  • colonial ventures
  • personal ambition

Key Concepts

history political theory ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards prevent a nation from self‑ruin?
  • How can societies learn from past overreach?
A Different Perspective

Ambition can also drive positive change.

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