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Council Quote by William Shakespeare

“You have witchcraft in your lips, there is more eloquence in a sugar touch of them than in the tongues of the French council; and they should sooner persuade Harry of England than a general petition of monarchs.” quote by William Shakespeare
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“You have witchcraft in your lips, there is more eloquence in a sugar touch of them than in the tongues of the French council; and they should sooner persuade Harry of England than a general petition of monarchs.”

William Shakespeare

About This Quote

Source Play: Henry V, Act 2, Scene 4, 1599

The speaker praises the persuasive power of a lover's words over formal political rhetoric, suggesting personal charm can sway leaders better than official petitions.

In simple terms: Charm can influence more than formal arguments.

Key Takeaway

Use personal appeal to persuade.

Themes

persuasion politics love communication

Mood

reflective critical

Type

literary political

When to use this quote

  • diplomatic negotiations
  • personal relationships
  • political lobbying

Key Concepts

rhetoric influence courtship

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can personal charm outweigh logical argument?
  • When is charisma insufficient?
A Different Perspective

Charm may not replace substantive policy or expertise.

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