Change Quote by William Shakespeare
““This is in thee a nature but infected; A poor unmanly melancholy sprung From change of fortune. Why this spade? this place? This slave-like habit? and these looks of care? Thy flatterers yet wear silk, drink wine, lie soft; Hug their diseased perfumes, and have forgot That ever Timon was. Shame not these woods, By putting on the cunning of a carper. Be thou a flatterer now, and seek to thrive By that which has undone thee: hinge thy knee, And let his very breath, whom thou'lt observe, Blow off thy cap; praise his most vicious strain, And call it excellent: thou wast told thus; Thou gavest thine ears like tapsters that bid welcome To knaves and all approachers: 'tis most just That thou turn rascal; hadst thou wealth again, Rascals should have 't. Do not assume my likeness.””
About This Quote
Source Play: Coriolanus, Act 5, Scene 1, 1611
A character accuses another of hypocrisy, urging them to abandon false pretenses and embrace honesty.
In simple terms: Call out hypocrisy and be sincere.
Key Takeaway
Reject pretentiousness, act truthfully.
Themes
honesty
hypocrisy
integrity
politics
self-awareness
Mood
defiant
critical
serious
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political debate
- personal relationships
- leadership decisions
- public speaking
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
political critique
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you confront hypocrisy without creating hostility?
- What honest actions can replace false flattery?
A Different Perspective
The speaker’s harsh tone may alienate the audience, reducing impact.
