Skip to content

Gates Quote by William Shakespeare

“The gates of monarchs Are arched so high that giants may jet through And keep their impious turbans on without Good morrow to the sun.” quote by William Shakespeare
Download Open image
“The gates of monarchs Are arched so high that giants may jet through And keep their impious turbans on without Good morrow to the sun.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: The Tempest, Act 1, Scene 2, 1611

The line describes grand gates built for monarchs, so tall that even giants can pass, while their foolish followers remain unchanged.

In simple terms: Grand structures serve the powerful, but the foolish stay the same.

Key Takeaway

Recognize when grandiosity masks stagnation.

Themes

power architecture folly tradition authority

Mood

reflective critical thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political ceremonies
  • urban planning
  • cultural rituals
  • leadership displays

Key Concepts

symbolism social hierarchy human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • What structures in your life seem impressive but hide underlying foolishness?
  • How do you differentiate true grandeur from empty display?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may be obscure without context.

3.9 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by William Shakespeare

Explore all 5,604 William Shakespeare quotes

More Gates quotes

Browse all 1,062 Gates quotes