Skip to content

Question Quote by William Shakespeare

“To be, or not to be, that is the question.” quote by William Shakespeare
Download Open image
“To be, or not to be, that is the question.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: Hamlet, 1603

Existential dilemma about action versus inaction and the meaning of life.

In simple terms: To act or not to act.

Key Takeaway

Contemplate your purpose.

Themes

existence choice philosophy

Mood

thoughtful dramatic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal decision making
  • creative writing
  • ethics

Key Concepts

existentialism human condition

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “being” mean to you?
  • How do you decide when to act?
A Different Perspective

Overthinking can stall action.

4.4 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by William Shakespeare

Explore all 5,607 William Shakespeare quotes

More Question quotes

Browse all 1,675 Question quotes