Skip to content

Masques Hear Quote by William Shakespeare

“What, are there masques? Hear you me, Jessica: Lock up my doors; and when you hear the drum And the vile squealing of the wry-neck'd fife, Clamber not you up to the casements then, Nor thrust your head into the public street To gaze on Christian fools with varnish'd faces, But stop my house's…” quote by William Shakespeare
Download Open image
““What, are there masques? Hear you me, Jessica: Lock up my doors; and when you hear the drum And the vile squealing of the wry-neck'd fife, Clamber not you up to the casements then, Nor thrust your head into the public street To gaze on Christian fools with varnish'd faces, But stop my house's ears, I mean my casements: Let not the sound of shallow foppery enter ””

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: The Tempest, Act 2, Scene 2

A warning against exposing oneself to shallow public spectacle and foolishness.

In simple terms: Avoid public foolishness and shallow displays.

Key Takeaway

Guard your senses from trivial distractions.

Themes

self‑control appearance society foolishness privacy

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • social etiquette
  • media consumption
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

social critique self‑preservation public perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it wise to engage with public opinion?
  • How do we balance privacy with participation?
A Different Perspective

The admonition may be overly restrictive in open societies.

2.4 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by William Shakespeare

Explore all 5,604 William Shakespeare quotes