Skip to content

Age Quote by William Shakespeare

“Therefore was I created with a stubborn outside, with an aspect of iron, that when I come to woo ladies, I fright them. But, in faith, Kate, the elder I wax, the better I shall appear. My comfort is that old age, that ill layer-up of beauty, can do no more spoil upon my face. Thou hast me, if thou…” quote by William Shakespeare
Download Open image
“Therefore was I created with a stubborn outside, with an aspect of iron, that when I come to woo ladies, I fright them. But, in faith, Kate, the elder I wax, the better I shall appear. My comfort is that old age, that ill layer-up of beauty, can do no more spoil upon my face. Thou hast me, if thou hast me, at the worst, and thou shalt wear me, if thou wear me, better and better.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: The Comedy of Errors, Act 2, Scene 3, 1594

A speaker laments that his aging appearance and rigid demeanor repel potential lovers, yet believes that humility and experience will eventually improve his appeal.

In simple terms: Aging and stubbornness hinder romance, but humility may help.

Key Takeaway

Embrace humility and let age soften pride.

Themes

love aging humility self-awareness

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • courtship
  • professional networking
  • personal relationships
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

self-perception social anxiety personal growth

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can vulnerability improve romantic prospects?
  • How does age influence self-confidence?
A Different Perspective

Self-deprecation may not be sufficient to change others' perceptions.

2.1 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by William Shakespeare

Explore all 5,604 William Shakespeare quotes

More Age quotes

Browse all 18,948 Age quotes