Born Quote by William Shakespeare
“Wherefore was I to this keen mockery born? When at your hands did I deserve this scorn? Is't not enough, is't not enough, young man, That I did never, no, nor never can, Deserve a sweet look from Demetrius' eye, But you must flout my insufficiency?”
About This Quote
Source Play: A Midsummer Night's Dream, Act 2, Scene 1, 1595
The speaker feels unjustly mocked and believes they are undeserving of affection, questioning why they are treated harshly.
In simple terms: Feeling unfairly mocked and undeserving of love.
Key Takeaway
Accept that self‑worth isn’t defined by others’ scorn.
Themes
self‑esteem
love
mockery
injustice
Mood
sad
reflective
Type
literary
dramatic
emotional
When to use this quote
- unrequited love
- courtship
- social ridicule
Key Concepts
Romantic longing
social hierarchy
self‑perception
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you judge your worth by others’ opinions?
- How can you claim dignity amid mockery?
A Different Perspective
The speaker’s self‑deprecation may ignore personal agency.
