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Bows Quote by William Shakespeare

“What wouldst thou do, old man? Think'st thou that duty shall have dread to speak When power to flattery bows?” quote by William Shakespeare
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“What wouldst thou do, old man? Think'st thou that duty shall have dread to speak When power to flattery bows?”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

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

A man asks an elder if duty compels him to speak when power flattery.

In simple terms: He questions duty versus flattery.

Key Takeaway

Balance duty with integrity.

Themes

duty power flattery

Mood

dramatic inquisitive

Type

theatrical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • public speaking
  • personal decision

Key Concepts

ethics authority

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is flattery justified?
  • How does duty shape speech?
A Different Perspective

Flattery can sometimes serve strategic purposes.

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