--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: What is thy body but a swallowing grave…" description: "\"“What is thy body but a swallowing grave, Seeming to bury that posterity Which, by the rights of time, thou needs must have If thou destroy them not in..." image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/499/william-shakespeare-4_beauty_what-is-thy-body-but-a-swallowing-grave_568987.jpg" --- # What is thy body but a swallowing grave, Seeming to bury… ![“What is thy body but a swallowing grave, Seeming to bury that posterity Which, by the rights of time, thou needs must have If thou destroy them not in dark obscurity? If so, the world will hold thee in disdain, Sith in thy pride so fair a hope is slain.” quote by William Shakespeare](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/499/william-shakespeare-4_beauty_what-is-thy-body-but-a-swallowing-grave_568987.jpg) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/499/william-shakespeare-4_beauty_what-is-thy-body-but-a-swallowing-grave_568987.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/499/william-shakespeare-4_beauty_what-is-thy-body-but-a-swallowing-grave_568987.jpg) > ““What is thy body but a swallowing grave, Seeming to bury that posterity Which, by the rights of time, thou needs must have If thou destroy them not in dark obscurity? If so, the world will hold thee in disdain, Sith in thy pride so fair a hope is slain.”” [William Shakespeare](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/william-shakespeare/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Our bodies are temporary vessels that must preserve legacy; pride can destroy that purpose, leading to disdain. **In simple terms:** Life is fleeting; pride harms legacy. Key Takeaway Cultivate humility to honor future generations. Themes mortality pride legacy humility Mood somber thoughtful Type dramatic philosophical When to use this quote - family planning - career decisions - artistic creation - public service Key Concepts existentialism ethics human condition Questions to Reflect On - How does pride affect your long‑term impact? - What humility practices sustain your legacy? 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