Introduction.
This page (launched on Mar 30, 2017), is an effort to meet the demand of visitors who reach the ‘Your Daily Shakespeare’ site, searching for a specific Shakespearean quote.
The page will be built gradually. Its entries reflect the Shakespeare-related keywords by which internauts reached this site. All entries are extracted from the massive dictionary “Your Daily Shakespeare – an Arsenal of Verbal Weapons to Drive your Friends into Action and Your Enemies into Despair.”
The “Your Daily Shakespeare” website/blog was born in February 2012 with the (somewhat ambitious) idea of linking the elegance and inimitable power of Shakespeare’s words to sundry articles (blogs) commenting on our paradoxical, and often deranged or mad world.
As you can see and/or witness this blog has never requested donations, contributions, etc. I only suggests that he/she who is interested in improving his style of expression, will find in the “Your Daily Shakespeare”dictionary, an endless source of help and inspiration. Help for constructing, refining and delivering a powerful, elegant and persuasive message, of any type and to an audience numbering from one to thousands.
I will not repeat the information (on the dictionary) written in other pages (see menu). I will only repeat that I will refund the cost of the dictionary (less shipping costs), to anyone who finds it does not deliver what it promises. To purchase goto the bookstore.
In this page the entries are NOT in alphabetical order. Additions reflect the search terms used by visitors to the site.
And….I consider this as a “special offer” to those who purchased the book. I found an easy, aesthetic and amusing method to efficiently remember very many quotations by using my software called “Mnemonic Frames” (to learn more see video
https://youtu.be/_-O2SFmkAj0
Send me the quote you wish to memorize (jimmie.moglia@gmail.com), and I will send you the related mnemonic frame. Book buyers only please.
QUOTES
Communications, non verbal communications
“There was speech in their dumbness, language in their very
gestures.” (WT.5.2) GENTLEMAN to Autolycus
User Tips. Describe the astonishment of a silent audience. Or modify slightly when commenting on the reaction of your interlocutor, e.g. “There is language in your very gesture,” which could be positive (for example a reaction to an advantageous proposal). Or negative, if the party is your political enemy.
In the play. Autolycus has managed to travel to Sicilia and inquires of the Gentleman what was Polixenes’ (and Camillo’s) reaction once they found the information contained in the shepherd’s package. Meaning that Perdita is King Leonte’s daughter.
Search Terms: body language, Communications, non verbal communications – shakespeare body language, phrases on non verbal communications,
NOTE. The YDS dictionary refers requests for “Communications, non verbal communications” to the entries for “Body Language” and related types and descriptions (of body language).
Daffodils
“Daffodils, that come before the swallows dare, and take
The winds of March with beauty” (WT.4.4)
User Tips. Self-explanatory but memorable when watching daffodils in bloom. With suitable modifications, the quote can be applies ironically in a corporate setting, for example to an employee who notoriously is always the first at meetings, “Caruthers, who always comes before the swallows dare…”
In the play. Perdita offers flowers to Camillo, who has travelled to Central Europe from Sicilia
Search Terms: daffodils – flowers – Perdita – office usable –
Daffodils
“When daffodils begin to peer,
Why then comes in the sweet o’ the year;
For the red blood reigns in the winter’s pale .” (WT.4.2)
User Tips. That ‘red blood’ suggests a lingering passion unaffected by coldness or winter. User discretion advised.
In the play. The rascal Autolycus is in a good mood and enters the scene singing.
Search Terms: daffodils – flowers – Autolycus –
Hypocrisy, accusing others of one’s mischiefs
“The secret mischiefs that I set abroach
I lay unto the grievous charge of others.” (KRIII.1.3)
User Tips. Perfect example of US policies, sometimes carried out secretly (e.g. defenestration of democratically elected Mossadeq in Iran) – sometimes openly (e.g. Ukraine (“We spent 5 billion $ to change the regime,” as uttered by the (in)famous Victoria (f..k the Europeans) Nuland). In the remote case where you are a congressman or senator, daring to fight the monumental hypocrisy of US foreign policy, try “The secret mischief that you set abroach, you lay unto the grievous charge of others.”
In the play. Richard outlines his evil strategy in a monologue. ‘Abroach’ refers to a barrel that has been opened or ‘broached’.
Search Terms. US foreign policies – evil – machiavellism – office usable – shakespeare quotes on hypocrisy
NOTE. The YDS dictionary has dozens of entries dedicated to the item ‘hypocrisy’. More will be added each time a visitors searches for ‘hypocrisy’ or similar.
Hypocrisy, determination to stamp it out
“Now step I forth to whip hypocrisy.”(LLL.4.3)
User Tips. Prepare the audience to your next subject making clear your intentions. A good verbal prelude before you begin to demolish the hypocritical statements of your adversary
In the play. Biron will uncover the hypocrisy of his fellow students and friends.
Search Terms. shakespeare quotes on hypocrisy
Flowers, rose
“Of all Flowers, methinks a Rose is best” (TTK, 2.2, The Two Noble Kinsmen)
User Tips. Compliment, substitute the name of the lady whom you admire for ‘a Rose’ or say the line first and then follow up with the suggested substitution.
In the play. Line spoken by Emilia
Search Terms: rose – flowers – romantic lines – romance – rose quotes shakespeare – feministic jewish quotes – Shakespeare Valentine quotes –
NOTE. The YDS dictionary has dozens of entries dedicated to the item ‘Flowers, rose’. More will be added each time a visitors searches for ‘rose’
The Infant (First of the Seven Stages of Life)
“…. At first the infant,
Mewling and puking in the nurse’s arms…” (AYLI, 2.7)
User tips. Words of comfort for those not yet used to the somewhat arbitrary habits on an infant.
In the play. Jacques, a skeptic and a philosopher, at the forest-based court of the Duke, gives him and all present his own comprehensive interpretation of the seven stages of life.
Search Terms. Infant – infancy – seven stages of life –
Justice, judge (Fourth of the Seven Stages of Life)
“… And then the justice,
In fair round belly with good capon lin’d,
With eyes severe and beard of formal cut,
Full of wise saws and modern instances…” (AYLI.2.7)
User Tips. Apply ironically, with someone who recurrently tells jokes or utters words deemed funny only by himself. E.G. “Caruthers, you are always full of wise and modern instances.” The type will probably not know what you are talking about, but others may, and you will have at least taken something off your proverbial chest. Or comment on the arrival of a bearded colleague, “Here comes Caruthers, with eyes severe and beard of formal cut.”
In the play. Jacques, a skeptic and a philosopher, at the forest-based court of the Duke, gives him and all present his own comprehensive interpretation of the seven stages of life.
Search Terms. justice – modern instances – judge – office usable – seven stages of life – 7 ages of man, infant
Apologies, for rashness
“Forgive my general and exceptless rashness,
You perpetual-sober gods!” (TOA.4.3)
User Tips. After you have finally told plainly and forcefully, during a company meeting, what you think of the sly, dishonest, son-of-a-bitch, who tries to undermine or hurt you .
In the play. Timon does not at first recognize his trustful servant Flavius who came to visit, and addressed him rudely.
Search Terms. apologies – rashness – forgiveness – office usable – apology in Shakespeare –
NOTE. The YDS dictionary has dozens of entries dedicated to the item ‘apology’ and ‘apologies’. More will be added each time a visitors searches for ‘apology’, ‘excuse(s)’ or similar.
Retirement
“…and ‘tis our fast intent
To shake all cares and business from our age,
Conferring them on younger strengths, while we
Unburdened crawl towards death.” (KL.1.1)
User Tip. Perfect introduction to a retirement speech.
In the play. Lear announces his plan to abdicate and to divide his kingdom among daughters Regan, Goneril and Cordelia.
Search Terms. Retirement – retirement speech – office usable – Shakespeare words on retirement – quotes for retirement – shakespeare on retirement – Shakespeare quotes on retirement – retirement speeches by shakespeare
NOTE. The YDS dictionary has several entries dedicated to the item ‘retirement’, suitable for the occasion. More will be added each time a visitors searches for ‘retirement.’
Bully
“ I do hate a proud man, as I hate the engendering of toads.” (TC.2.3)
User Tips. Express your feelings about an arrogant person.
In the play. Ajax thinks that Achilles is proud without realizing that he is just the same.
Search Terms. Bully – bullying – arrogance – exceptionalism – american foreigh policy
NOTE. The YDS dictionary has several entries dedicated to the item ‘arrogance.’ More will be added each time a visitors searches for ‘bullying’ or ‘arrogance.’
Thank you, Shakespeare style
“…within this wall of flesh
There is a soul that counts thee her creditor
And with advantage means to pay thy love.” (KJ.3.1)
User Tips. A bit emphatic but it will leave a mark in her memory and he/she will remember later on. Works equally well for any occasion when you wish to be a bit more original in expressing gratitude than with the universal ‘thank you’.
In the play. King John thanks Hubert for his contribution to the happy outcome of the battle of Angiers.
Search Terms. thank you shakespeare style – gratitude – elegant expression – office usable – thank you in shakespeare – how to say thank you in shakespeare – shakespeare for saying thank you – shakespeare gratitude quotation, how would shakespeare say thank you,
NOTE. The YDS dictionary has several entries to express gratitude elegantly. More will be added each time a visitors searches for ‘expressing thanks’ or similar.
Hope and wish that something hoped-for will happen
“… ‘tis a consummation
Devoutly to be wished.” (H.3.1)
User Tips. Applicable whenever you wish to emphasize strongly what you hope will happen – in a positive sense or even ironic way. For example, as a repartee when a longwinded speaker says “I will be finished in a few minutes.” Equally, the quote can be slightly modified to emphasize the opposite, “… ’tis a consummation devoutly to be unwished.” You can think of many personal or general instances where the “unqishing” applies.
In the play. Part of the famous “to be or not to be” monolog.
Search Terms. Wish – hope – consummation – Hamlet – office usable – agreement with suggestion – proposal –
English language mangled
PARSON EVANS. Seese is not good to give putter; your pelly is all putter.
FALSTAFF. Sees and putter! have I lived to stand at the taunt of one that makes fritters of English?” (MWW.5.5)
User tips. Use Falstaff’s answer to rebut an accusation from a political enemy with questionable communication skills, e.g. ‘Nice words from one that makes fritters of English.’ If you cannot imitate the Welsh accent, try German.
In the play. Falstaff’s reply to a remark by Hugh Evans, a Welshman, whose English pronunciation is questionable, (‘Sees’ is ‘cheese’). Hugh Evans pokes fun at Falstaff after the pranks played on Falstaff by Mrs. Ford and Mrs. Page.
Search Terms. English – broken English – pronunciation – office usable
NOTE. The YDS dictionary has several entries connected with the use (and misuse) of the English language. More entries will be added when related searches.
Authority
LEAR Thou hast seen a farmer’s dog bark at a beggar?
GLOUCESTER Ay, sir.
LEAR And the creature run from the cur? There thou mightst behold the great image of authority: a dog’s obeyed in office. (KL.4.6)
User Tips. A rejoinder towards those who are in awe of authority
Search Terms. Authority – dog’s obeyed in office – opinion on authority – office usable – a dog’s obeyed in office analysis
Custom, c. as an obstacle to positive change
“What custom wills, in all things should we do’t,
The dust on antique time would lie unswept,
And mountainous error be too highly heapt
For truth to o’er-peer.” (COR.2.3)
User Tips. Retort when someone says ‘…but we have always done it this way.’ Argument to bring about when some people, parties or colleagues resist what you believe to be positive innovation
In the play. Coriolanus, forced by custom to stand in front of the people to garner their affection and gain popularity, decries the obligations of custom and (by inference) the continuation of error.
Search Terms. Innovation – resistance to change – office usable – innovation shakespeare
Love, how much?
“…I love you more than words can wield the matter…
A love that makes breath poor and speech unable
Beyond all manner of so much I love you.” (KL.1.1)
User Tips. Answer to ‘How much do you love me?’ Try it when you are not afraid of going overboard.
In the play. The scheming Goneril knows that the more outlandishly she declares her love towards her father Lear, the more land he will give her as he retires and parses out his possessions.
Search Terms. Love – how much do you love me? – romantic Shakespeare – how much do you love me quotes
NOTE. One of many Shakespearean answers found in the YDS dictionary to the same question.
Apologies unnecessary
“Thou mak’st faults graces that to thee resort.
As on the finger of a throned queen,
The basest jewel will be well esteemed.” (SON.46)
User Tips. Answer with these lines after whatever incident or occurrence that caused her to say ‘excuse me’. Grasp the occasion to tell her unexpectedly that she is comparable to a queen. Surprise works wonders in love and war. See also ‘Perfection, p. even in her shortcomings.’
Love, l. at first sight
“Hear my souls speak:
The very instant that I saw you, did
My heart fly to your service” (TEM.3.1)
User Tips. One of many Shakesearean replies to the eternal question, “Do you really love me?”
In the play. Ferdinando is deeply in love with Miranda.
Search Terms. love, declaration of lov, love at first sight, romantic Shakespeare, love in first sight, Shakespeare Valentine quotes,
Character (yours), habitually changing your mind
“Thus change I like the moon.” (LLL.5.1)
User Tips. Answer to ‘Why did you change your mind?’ Apply to the frequently found changeling – see also next quote on the chameleon.
In the play. Rosaline first asks her companions to play then changes her mind and suggests dancing.
Search Terms. personality quotes – changeling – office usable –character –
Character, false, cunning, shifting, perverse, changeling
“I can add colours to the chameleon,
Change shapes with Proteus for advantages,
And set the murderous Machiavel to school.” (KHVI p3.3.2)
User Tips. Characterize colleague or politician ever ready to change his allegiance when convenient. Change the sentence to the third person, use the lines in their entirety or extract as needed, e.g. ‘Caruthers can add colors to the chameleon’
In the play. Gloucester, the future Richard III, lists in a monologue his own set of political skills.
Search Terms. character – personality quotes – office usable –
Shakespeare on Brexit
“European Union? …the rankest compound of villanous smell, that ever offended nostril.” (MWW.3.5)
User Tips. Express your colorful opinion on that useless body of overpaid poltroon that constitutes the European Union, and give a cogent explanation for Brexit.
In the play. Mrs. Ford had arranged to have Falstaff carried away in a basket of dirty linen and other garbage. Falstaff describes the adventure.
Search Terms. smell – foul smell – reasons for Brexit –
NOTE. Plenty and abundant selection of Shakespearean quotes on actual and/or metaphorical foul smell for all sort of occasions, are found in the YDS dictionary.
Thought, power of t. and imagination to travel instantly
“ For nimble thought can jump both sea and land,
As soon as think the place where he would be.” (SON 44)
User Tips. A good line for a personalized romantic card. Or an answer to a statement of the type, “I wish you were here.”
Search Terms. thought – power of thought – imagination – power of the imagination
Rumor, slander, fake news, gossip
“ Upon my tongue continual slanders ride,
The which in every language I pronounce,
Stuffing the ears of man with false reports.” (KHIV.p2.introduction)
User Tips. A good retort to any sentence of the type ‘I have heard that you…. etc.” and you wish to deny whatever the rumor (or the statement) about you may be. E.G. “As rumor said of himself, “Upon my tongue… reports.”
In the play. Rumor introduces himself. The false rumor referred to is that Hotspur is alive and that the battle of Shrewsbury has been won by the rebels. Instead, Hotspur has been killed by the Prince of Wales and the king’s forces are in pursuit of the rebels.
Search Terms. gossip – fake news – slander – calumny – NSA – CIA – mainstream media – corporate media – Shakespeare on gossip – shakespeare quote about gossip, on the tongue of rumor, shakespearean quotes about rumor,
Whining school-boy
“… Then the whining school-boy, with his satchel
And shining-morning face, creeping like snail
Unwillingly to school.”
User Tips. A platonic reminder to a reluctant student, though, from what an outsider can gather, one prevailing perception is of school as infotainment, hence much less reluctance and unwillingness.
In the play. Jacques, a skeptic and a philosopher, at the forest-based court of the Duke, gives him and all present his own comprehensive interpretation of the seven stages of life.
Search Terms. why is the school boy reluctant to go to school – shakespeare school – shakespeare education – shakespeare the schoolboy – what is whining school boy – school boy sketch whining – schoolboy snail – whining school boy – schoolboy snail, why is the schoolboy described as whining –
Apologies for behavior caused by indisposition
“Infirmity doth still neglect all office
Whereto our health is bound; we are not ourselves
When nature, being oppress’d, commands the mind
To suffer with the body: I’ll forbear.” (KL.2.4)
User Tips. A good justification for harsh words or rudeness or otherwise unkind behavior. See also (in the actual dictionary) ‘Indisposition, minor i. affecting overall behavior – ‘Recognizing, reason for not recognizing someone
In the play. Lear thinks that the very poor treatment he got from his daughter Regan may be due to her being ill.
Search Terms. Apologies for comment – Forgive the comment – how to apologize shakespeare style –
Procrastination to be avoided
“… that we would do
We should do when we would; for this ‘would’ changes
And hath abatements and delays as many
As there are tongues, are hands, are accidents;
And then this ‘should’ is like a spendthrift sigh,
That hurts by easing.” (H.4.7)
User Tips. In a corporate setting, stimulate prompt action after an initial indication of consent. Also a good educational prompt for reluctant offspring. See also (in the actual dictionary), ‘Action, quick a. needed as time goes by quickly. ‘Determination, lapses in determination occurring often
In the play. King Claudius prompts Laertes to act quickly in taking revenge against Hamlet, who killed Polonius, Laertes’ father.
Search Terms. procrastination – famous quote on procastination by shakespeare – delay – do not delay – delays to be avoided – thoughts on procrastination bt shakespeare,
Education, literature, results of teaching
“You taught me language and my profit on it
Is, I know how to curse.” (TEM.1.2)
User Tips. Introduction, irony on education. E.G. ‘Not everybody agrees that education is a good thing, As Caliban told his teacher Prospero, ‘You taught me language and my profit on it is that I know how to curse’.
In the play. Caliban reports the results of the education imparted by Prospero.
Search Terms. Education not an asset – downfall of teaching shakespeare – disadvantages of education – disadvantages of a liberal education –
Opinion, opinion on money, handling of, borrowing and lending
“Neither a borrower nor a lender be;
For loan oft loses both itself and friend,
And borrowing dulls the edge of husbandry.” (H.1.3)
User Tips. Explain with this example your philosophy about borrowing and lending. See also ‘Financing, lending denied ”
In the play. Polonius gives his son Laertes a set of precepts to follow while in Paris.
Search Terms. Finance – banking – borrowing from banks – financial and lending money in Shakespeare –
Illusion, illusion caused by sorrow
“Alas, poor man! grief hath so wrought on him,
He takes false shadows for true substance.” (TA.3.2)
Excuse lapses in judgment due to grief-induced stress.
User Tips. Exclude the first line and use the second, as a comment on an opponent with whose silly ideas you strongly disagree. There are several quotations on illusions in the YDS dictionary.
In the play. Titus dissects a fly with a knife pretending it be the archenemy Aaron. Marcus comments on Titus’ state of mind.
Search Terms. Illusion – illusion quotes Shakespeare –
Life, uncertainty of life
“What surety of the world, what hope, what stay,
When this was now a king, and now is clay?” (KJ.5.7)
User tips. a good ending to a presentation whose theme is forecasting the future, especially of society, customs, politics, government, etc.
See also entries for ‘Destiny, beyond our control’
In the play. Prince Henry who succeeds the poisoned King John generalizes on the inherent volatility of life.
Search Terms. Shakespeare quotes of uncertainty – ending of presentation –
Face, beautiful face
“Her face was to mine eye beyond all wonder.” (PER.1.2)
User tips. Change to ‘Your face is to mine eye beyond all wonder’. Answer to ‘Do you like me?’ See also entries for ‘Face’, ‘Eyes’, ‘Lips’, ‘Cheeks’, ‘Hands’, ‘Skin’, ‘Beauty’, ‘Beautiful’, ‘Love’, ‘Ladies’, ‘Woman’, ‘Woman, beautiful’, ‘Woman, w. beautiful’, ‘Do you like me?’, ‘Dress’. There are about 150 Shakespeare romantic and usable compliments
In the play. On his return from Antioch, King Pericles explains to Helicanus the ordeal he (Pericles) he went through. The ‘face beyond all wonder’ belonged to the daughter of the king of Antioch, Antiochus. She was indeed beautiful but wicked and tied by incest to her father.
Search Terms. Praise a girl in shakespeare language – romance – compliment to a woman – Shakespeare Valentine quotes –
Woman, female frailty, invocation
“Frailty, thy name is woman.” (H.1.2)
User tips. Any situation in which a woman has done something wrong. It may get you into trouble if used with a feminist or with a feminist audience.
In the play. After meditating about how quickly his mother married the new king, Hamlet inveighs against women.
Search Terms. Shakespeare feminist quotes – invocation – women – shakespeare quotes about women
Toast, dinner and health
“Now, good digestion wait on appetite,
And health on both!” (M.3.4)
User Tips. Ideal start of a pre-dinner or pre-banquet speech or introduction.
In the play. After having Banquo killed by terrorists, Macbeth organizes a banquet in his castle, but Banquo’s ghost is hovering about.
Search Terms. Introduction to company dinner – social dinner – greetings before dinner
Advice, a. on men’s wear and fashion
“Costly thy habit as thy purse can buy,
But not express’d in fancy; rich, not gaudy;
For the apparel oft proclaims the man,
And they in France of the best rank and station
Are of a most select and generous chief in that.” (H.1.3)
User Tips. Answer when you are complimented about your attire. E.G. ‘My habit is as costly as my purse can buy, but not expresses…gaudy’. Answer to question(s) about your taste on clothing, e.g. ‘Costly my habit as my purse can buy…man’. For a different view see entries for ‘Appearances, a. deceptive’ – ‘Character, c. all in his clothes’
Retort when someone compliments you on any piece of your clothing. E.G. “As you know, the apparel oft proclaims the man.”
In the play. Polonius gives his son Laertes a set of precepts to follow while in Paris. See note (in the YDS dictionary) to ‘Opinion, your op. on money, handling of, borrowing and lending’ for the complete list.
Search Terms. Fashion – clothing – attire – Shakespeare in fashion – shakespeare quotes about clothes – shakespeare quotes on dress
Regret, r. corrosive for things that cannot be changed
“Care is no cure, but rather corrosive,
For things that are not to be remedied.” (KHVI.p1.3.3)
User Tips. Exhort the audience to look to the future rather than harping on the past. See also entries for ‘Care’ *** ‘Complaint’ *** ‘Attitude, a. towards what is past and cannot be changed’
In the play. La Pucelle addresses the French princes after their defeat at Rouen.
Search Terms. Regret – Regret for Shakespeare
Beauty, b. greater than stars –
“…(s)he will make the face of heaven so fine
That all the world will be in love with night
And pay no worship to the garish sun.” (RJ.3.2)
User Tips. Compliment, applicable to either sex with minor modifications, e.g. ‘If you were a star, you would make the face of heaven…sun’.
In the play. Juliet is eagerly waiting for the arrival of Romeo, whom she has just married.
Search Terms. Night – love – beauty – nice night and woman – Shakespeare Valentine quotes –
Nostalgia, regret, memory
“When to the session of sweet silent thought,
I summon up remembrance of things past,
I sigh the lack of many a thing I sought,
And with old woes new wail my dear time’s waste.” (SON.30)
User Tips. Use the first two lines to introduce your description or narration of a memory, of your youth, or of moments in your career or personal life. Or, should you be a politician, use the lines as an introduction or reference to a time in politics, that was more in line or tune with your ideology.
Search Terms. Memory – memory quotations shakespeare –
Gratitude, g. recognized and expressed
“…within this wall of flesh
There is a soul that counts thee her creditor
And with advantage means to pay thy love.” (KJ.3.1)
User Tips. A bit emphatic but it will leave a mark in the memory of the recicpient and he/she may remember later on. Works equally well for any occasion when you wish to be a bit more original in expressing gratitude than with the universal ‘thank you’.
In the play. King John thanks Hubert for his contribution to the victorious outcome of the battle of Angiers.
Search Terms. Shakespeare words for thank you – gratitude shakespeare style – saying thank you in shakespeare terms – Shakespeare’s words of gratitude
Arrogance, a. promoted by submission
“ … pride hath no other glass
To show itself but pride; … for supple knees
Feed arrogance, and are the proud man’s fees.” (TC.3.3)
User Tips. An argument for avoiding a submissive attitude towards bullies and bullying of any type
In the play. Ulysses tells the Greek generals to stroll in front of Achille’s tent and ignore him. This will hurt his pride – whereas if they showed respect (by, for example, bending their knees in homage), they would feed his arrogance.
Search Terms. bullies – bullying –
Liar, a breaker of promises
“He professes no keeping of oaths; in breaking them he is stronger than Hercules.” (AWEW.4.3)
User Tips. Define a liar – applicable to the behavior of many politicians before and after being elected.
In the play. Believing his capturers to be the enemy, Parolles, to save his own skin, does not hesitate to badmouth Bertram, his friend and protector.
Search Terms. Shakespeare on keeping promises – Shakespeare on not keeping promises – promises –
Error, e. admitted and due to youthful inexperience .
“Those were my salad days,
When I was green in judgement.” (AC.1.5)
User Tips. Unless you are really old (see AGE) you can often attribute your errors to inexperience and get away with it. Lettuce, the paramount ingredient of a salad was considered an anti-aphrodisiac (See Aphrodisiacs) as well as a potent medicine. In his XVth century book “Honest Pleasures and Good Health”, Platina relates how the Roman Emperor Augustus was healed from a threatening illness by eating exclusively salads. “Nor
this should cause any surprise – he writes – because lettuce helps digestion and creates good blood more than any other vegetable.” The two views on the effects of salads seem contradictory. But equally conflicting views are held today on various diets.
See also entries for ‘Naivete’
In the play. Cleopatra commenting on her younger years in conversation with attendant Charmian.
Search Terms. salad days antony and cleopatra – youthful inexperience –
Politics, democracy, evils of d.
“ This double worship –
Where one part does disdain with cause, the other
Insult without all reason; where gentry, title, wisdom,
Cannot conclude but by yea and no
Of general ignorance.” (COR.3.1)
User Tips. An argument for restricting the responsibility of management, E.G. “(It is a system) Where one part does disdain with cause, the other insult without all reason.”
In the play. Coriolanus explains the reasons for his choice of dictatorship over democracy. The people are ignorant and should not have any say in government.
Search Terms. Shakespeare on democracy – shakespeare on politics –
Love, poetry and madness
“The lunatic, the lover and the poet,
Are of imagination all compact.” (MND.5.1)
User Tips. An opportune reply when she says, “Are you mad?” after you made a suggestion that shocked or amused her well enough to ask you the question.
In the play. Theseus, in conversation with Hippolyta, makes some important philosophical statements.
Search Terms. Shakespeare about love and lunatics – hakespeare lunatic lover poet imagination –
Love, l. at first sight
“The very instant that I saw you, did
My heart fly to your service” (TEM.3.1)
User Tips. One of many replies to the eternal question, ‘Do you really love me?’
In the play, Ferdinando is deeply in love with Miranda.
Search Terms. love ay first sight – courting –
Modesty, m. in possession
“…Two of these fellows you
Must know and own; this thing of darkness!
Acknowledge mine.” (TEM.5.1)
User Tips. Self-effacing statement about an item you own but do not value much e.g. an old car, a tattered executive briefcase, a stained coffee mug etc. e.g. ‘This thing of darkness I acknowledge mine’. ‘Thing of darkness’ can also be applied to a contemptible character.
In the play. Prospero addresses the re-united company. The two fellows are the drunkard conspirators Stephano and Trinculo. The actual ‘thing of darkness’ is the monster Caliban.
Search Terms. thing of darkness – contemptible individual – insult –
Commitment, you will maintain the c.
“… and when I break that oath, let me turn monster.” (AYLI.1.2)
User Tips. Confirm that you will keep your promise(s). See also ‘ Credentials. Establishing your credentials.’ – ‘Credentials, sincerity, one tongue. – ‘Politicians’ promises, habitual’
In the play. Celia commits to be the eternal friend of Rosalind whatever the circumstances.
Search Terms. commitment – pledge –
Dreams, illusions and nightmares
“I think it is the weakness of mine eyes
That shapes his monstrous apparition.” (JC.4.3)
User Tips. Something preposterous is presented to you and you do not want to acknowledge it. – About 30 quotes on illusions in the YDS dictionary
In the play. Brutus has a nightmare in which the ghost of slain Caesar appears.
Search Terms. Illusions – quotes on illusions
Arrogance, arrogant speech, a longwinded speaker of nonsense
What cracker is this ass, that deafs our ears
With this abundance of superfluous breath.” (KJ.2.1)
User Tips. Comment on a boring and loud speaker
In the play. The Archduke of Austria and Philip F. (on whom Philip F. pronounces the judgment), don’t get along well.
Search Terms. Insult, arrogance, boring speech, boredom
Punishment for warmonger and corrupt politicians
……… roast me in sulphur!
Wash me in steep-down gulfs of liquid fire! (OTH 5.2)
User Tips. A minor change in pronoun preserves the meaning, the rhythm and the power of the original. “ roast him/her/them in sulphur! Wash them in steep-down gulfs of liquid fire! And it enables you to curse those warmongers and abysmally corrupt politicians, whose crimes, unfortunately, have gone unpunished since 1990.
In the play.After killing Desdemona and realizing the magnitude of his crim, Othello calls for self-punishment
Search Terms. Punishment – curse – warmongers – corruption – william shakespeare quotes about corruption
Toast, dinner and health
“Now, good digestion wait on appetite,
And health on both!” (M.3.4)
User Tips. Ideal start of a pre-dinner or pre-banquet speech or introduction.
In the play. After having Banquo killed, Macbeth organizes a banquet in his castle, but Banquo’s ghost is hovering about.
Search Terms. Good appetite shakespeare – formal opening – formal dinner – introduction
Defeat, d. acknowledged
“Our enemies have beat us to the pit:
It is more worthy to leap in ourselves,
Than tarry till they push us.” (JC.5.5)
User tips. Tough decisions needed promptly after being defeated.
In the play. Brutus after losing the battle of Philippi.
Search Terms. surrender – defeat – acknowledging defeat
Regret, r. corrosive for things that cannot be changed
“Care is no cure, but rather corrosive,
For things that are not to be remedied.” (KHVI.p1.3.3)
User tips. Exhort the audience to look to the future rather than harping on the past. See also entries for ‘Care’ *** ‘Complaint’ *** ‘Attitude, a. towards what is past and cannot be changed’ – Many entries in the YDS dictionary are focused on specific forms and occasions of regret.
In the play. La Pucelle addresses the French princes after their defeat at Rouen.
Search Terms. regret in shakespeare – regret
Rejection, enough!
“Dismiss your vows, your feigned tears, your flattery;
For where a heart is hard they make no battery.” (V&A)
User tips. A somewhat unusual situation when it is the man who rejects the advances of a woman. Though few, one would think, would reject the amorous advances of Venus. However, any lady can equally use the quote to dismiss anm insistent and petulant pursuer she does not care for. The YDS dictionary has many entries dealing with rejection and how to handle it.
In the poem. Adonis rejects Venus’ persistent and strong advances.
Search Terms. rejection – rejection in shakespeare
Marriage, joys of m.
“… acquaint the princess
With the sweet silent hours of marriage joys” (KRIII.4.4)
User tips. Try ‘let me acquaint you with the sweet hours of marriage joys’
In the play. The super-crafty Richard now asks Queen Elizabeth, widow of dead king Edward IV, to marry her daughter and to prepare her for this event.
Search Terms. marriage – marriage proposal shakespeare
Fortune, f. defined
That goddess blind,
That stands upon the rolling restless stone… “ (H5.3.2)
User tips. Elegant way to state that Fortune, and not you, is responsible for the turn of events.
In the play. At a military camp in France Pistol defines the metaphors of Fortune and the amusing Fluellen, who, in the play, speaks with a strong Welsh accent, explains further as follows, “Fortune is painted blind, with a muffler afore her eyes, to signify to you that Fortune is blind; and she is painted also with a wheel, to signify to you, which is the moral of it, that she is turning, and inconstant, and mutability, and variation: and her foot, look you, is fixed upon a spherical stone, which rolls, and rolls, and rolls: in good truth, the poet makes a most excellent description of it: Fortune is an excellent moral.”
Search Terms. ficklesness – fortune fickle – unpredictability – chance
Dandy, arrival of a d.
“Came there a certain lord, neat, and trimly dress’d,
Fresh as a bridegroom…”(KHIVp1.1.3)
User tips. Friendly ironic comment on a neatly attired colleague, e.g. ‘Here comes Caruthers, neat…bridegroom. ’ See also ‘Greetings, end of unhappiness ” (in the actual dictionary)
In the play. Hotspur tells King Henry of an encounter with a dandy sent by the very same King.
Search Terms. dress – attire – dress in shakespeare
Gold, corrupting effects of g.
“Thus much of this will make black white, foul fair,
Wrong right, base noble, old young, coward valiant.” (TOA.4.3)
In the play. Timon happens to stumble on some hidden gold while looking for edible roots in the woods and philosophizes on its pernicious effects. Many other quotes on gold and all iys aspects and intepretations in the YDS dictionary.
User tips. Use as a comment to the corrupt capitalistic system, or equivalent.
Search Terms. shakespeare quotes on money – william shakespeare quotes about corruption
Appearance, a. deceiving
“They should be good men; their affairs as righteous:
But all hoods make not monks.” (KHVIII.3.1)
User tips. For a contrary perspective on the relationship between attire and character see ‘Opinion, your op. on fashion.’ (in the actual Your Daily Shakespeare dictionary
In the play. Queen Katherine sees Cardinals Wolsey and Campeius approaching and is suspicious of their motives.
Search Terms. shakespeare on appearance – appearances
Procrastination
“To-morrow, and to-morrow, and to-morrow,
Creeps in this petty pace from day to day
To the last syllable of recorded time,
And all our yesterdays have lighted fools
The way to dusty death…” (M. 5.5)
User tips. Ideal as a pointed reminder to an employee or bureaucrat who answer your request by telling you to come back tomorrow, or similar.
In the play. Seyton has just announced to Macbeth that the queen is dead.
Search Terms. procrastination – delay – bureaucracy
Zero tolerance
“I will be deaf to pleading and excuses;
Nor tears nor prayers shall purchase out abuses:
Therefore use none” (RJ.3.1)
User tips. An elegant alternative to an overused americanism. Or in response to questionable justifications for tasks, assignments or homework not done.
In the play. The Prince of Verona is angry at finding Mercutio and Tybalt slain after he had banned dueling.
Search Terms. Zero tolerance – hacked phrases – cool talk
Custom, c. more ignored than followed
“… it is a custom
More honour’d in the breach than the observance.” (H.1.4)
User tips. Apply to the Constitution as (dis)respected by politicians, A typical example is reading a company’s operation manual.
In the play. Horatio asks if it is the local custom to hold a celebration party, which is just being given by the king. Hamlet replies.
Search Terms. US Constitution – theory and practice
Debt, insisting on repaying a courtesy
“In common worldly things, ’tis call’d ungrateful,
With dull unwillingness to repay a debt” (KRIII.2.2)
User tips. A friend did you a favor and refuses to be repaid but you want to.
In the play. Dorset tries to comfort Queen Elizabeth remained widow after the death of Edward IV. The debt referred to is the fact that her son will be king – though Richard III will prevent this from happening by murdering the boy.
Search Terms. shakespeare on appreciation – gratitude – repayment – debt
Sincerity, credentials
“What I think I utter and spend my malice in my breath”. (COR.2.1)
User tips. A good way to declare both your sincerity, particularly if there is a hint or innuendo that you may be hiding something. See also ‘Character, straight-forward, no shrewishness’. (In the YDS dictionary)
In the play. Menenius speaks with the tribunes and makes it clear that he speaks as he sees it.
Search Terms. shakespeare on sincerity – credentials
Woman, cruel, killer
“Fly away, fly away breath;
I am slain by a fair cruel maid.” (TN.2.4)
User tips. Act dramatically as you say this if she said ‘no’.
In the play. The Duke Orsino, disappointed in his pursuit of Olivia asks the Clown to sing a melancholy song. The lines are part of the song sung by the clown.
Search Terms. shakespeare quotes about women –
Thank you, answer to ‘thank’ you’
“Too little payment for so great a debt.” (TOS.5.2)
User tips. When a big wig has taken you under his protection and thanks you for a favor you did him.
In the play. The fully tamed Katharina has acknowledged her husband Petruchio as her lord – the payment consists of love, fair looks and true obedience.
Search Terms. what to say to thank you – answer to thank you shakespeare style
Time as a seasoning agent
“How many things by season season’d are
To their right praise, and true perfection.” (MOV.5.1)
User tips. Two possible uses. One, to justify the delay of a decision. “Give it time, how many things…. Perfection”. Or as a compliment to a woman who is afraid of being too old, “Of you it can be said, how many things…..perfection.” See also ‘Age. “Do you think I look old?”’ (in the actual YDS dictionary)
In the play. Portia commenting on a perfect evening during which everything falls into place.
Search Terms. time, give time to time, season seasoned – Shakespeare Valentine quotes –
Insult, a longwinded speaker of nonsense
“What cracker is this ass, that deafs our ears
With this abundance of superfluous breath.” (KJ.2.1)
User tips. Comment on a boring and loud speaker
In the play. The Archduke of Austria’s comment on Philip Faulconbridge. The term cracker probably derives from the Middle English cnac, craic, or crak, meaning originally the sound of a cracking whip – in time being referred to “loud conversation, bragging talk”
Search Terms. boring person, boring speaker, insult, shakespeare insult
Arrogance
“I am sir Oracle,
And when I ope my lips, let no dog bark” (MOV 1.1)
User tips. There are characters like these – I met with some – especially in large corporations. Applicable to some politicians in sundry administrations
In the play. Gratiano’s describes to Antonio a well define type of conceited, arrogant person.
Search Terms. Arrogance – arrogant – arrogance in shakespeare
Working hard
“Did he so often lodge in open field
In winter’s cold and summer’s parching heat…” (KHVI.p2.1.1)
User tips. Stress that you have been working very hard. E.G. “Back to work, in winter’s cold and summer’s patching heat.”
In the play. The Duke of Gloucester explodes when he comes to know that the lands conquered in France by Henry V in extreme conditions have been given back to France, while Margaret of Anjou has become Henry VI’s wife with no dowry.
Search Term. shakespeare quotes about working hard
Opinion, an opinion on doctors
“… trust not the physician;
His antidotes are poison, and he slays
More than you rob.” (TOA.4.3)
User tips. Use the example as a counterpoint with those who place complete and absolute trust in corporate medicine and heavily marketed medicaments
In the play. Two robbers stumble upon Timon who has retreated and retired to a wood. He talks with the robbers and almost converts them away from their profession, by inciting them to pursue it.
Search Term. shakespeare on health care – shakespeare on medicine
Prediction, desire to know in advance, Uncertainty
“O, that a man might know
The end of this day’s business ere it come!
But it sufficeth that the day will end,
And then the end is known.” (JC.5.1)
User tips. Answer to ‘What do you think will happen?’ Justifying your anxiety while waiting for the outcome of an event. See also (in the YDS dictionary), ‘Life, manly approach to unexpected events, however rough.’
In the play. Brutus before the battle at Philippi.
Search Terms. Uncertainty in Shakespeare – Shakespeare uncertainty
Lover, love as one of the seven stages of life.
“… And then the lover,
Sighing like furnace, with a woeful ballad,
Made to hi mistress’ eyebrow.” (AYLI, 2.7)
User tips. Describe ironically the romantic outbursts of impetuous lover
In the play. One of the seven stages of life, as delineated and described by Jacqui in As You Like It.” Infant, school-boy, lover, soldier, middle age typified by a judge, third age, utter decrepitude.
Search Terms. seven ages of man lover,
Music, dislike for bag-pipes
“Some men there are love not a gaping pig; …
And others, when the bagpipe sings i’ the nose
Cannot contain their urine.” (MOV.4.1)
User tips. Answer to, “Do you like bagpipes?” or interject it as a comment if and when the subject turns to bagpipes. Or take an artistic license and substitute bagpipes for any music genre you may not like.
In the play. Shylock finds arguments (with the Duke of Venice), to have his forfeit paid, the famous pound of flesh culled from Antonio.
Search Terms. music, bagpipes, bag-pipes
Silence, invitation to shut-up
“…leave thy vain bibble babble.” (TN.4.2)
User tips. Perfect retort for all suitable occasions, but perfect during a political debate among candidates.
In the play. The clown to Malvolio, who, as a consequence of a prank, has been confined to a dark cellar.
Search Terms. Shakespeare shut-up.
Anger
“My heart for anger burns; I cannot brook it.” (KHVI p3.1.1)
User tip. Express your anger forcefully, with a dash of sarcasm, especially if you want to be more theatrical than angry.
In the play. Westmoreland’s reaction at the thought of Richard Plantagenet, duke of York, becoming king instead of Henry VI. York is defiantly already sitting on the throne.
Search Terms. william shakespeare quotes on anger.
Madness, wishing to be mad to forget/avoid pain
“… Better I were distract.
So should my thoughts be severed from my griefs,
And woes, by wrong imaginations lose
The knowledge of themselves.” (KL.4.6)
User Tip. Emphatic alternative to ‘I wish I did not know this’ or gut reaction to learn the latest exploit of US’ foreign policy
In the play. Gloucester is extremely depressed, after having been blinded by the Duke of Cornwall and his evil wife Regan.
Search Terms. madness, wishing to be mad, wishing for madness.
Health-care, natural remedies, naturopathy
“Within the infant rind of this small flower
Poison hath residence and medicine power” (RJ.2.2)
User Tip. Quote as an argument for natuural medicine
In the play. Friar Lawrence compares the opposite good and bad qualities of plants to the conflict between good and bad qualities in man. See also ‘Virtue, vice and their relationship.
Search Terms. shakespeare quotes about natural medicine,
Planning, importance of planning
“When we mean to build,
We first survey the plot, then draw the model;
And when we see the figure of the house,
Then must we rate the cost of the erection;
Which if we find outweighs ability,
What do we then but draw anew the model
In fewer offices, or at last desist
To build at all.” (KHIV p2.1.3)
User Tip. When you want to encourage planning a venture rather than thoughtlessly diving into it. It could be during a meeting or in a written proposal.
In the play. Lord Bardolph cheers up the rebels by describing how planning is important in any enterprise. He compares planning to the construction of a house.
Search Terms. shakespeare quote about planning, shakespeare planning, planning in shakespeare, shakespeare planning quotes, shakespeare quote in planning ahead,
Dream and illusion
“Thus have I had thee as a dream doth flatter,
In sleep a king, but waking, no such matter.” (SON.87)
User Tip. Excellent romantic line for a card, note or letter.
some time.
In the sonnet. Sonnet 87 belongs to the “Fair Youth sequence,” in which the poet expresses his love to the intended character.
Search Terms. shakespeare on illusion, expressing love, romantic shalespeare lines, dreams in shakespeare, shakespeare on dreams
Vision, intuition
HAMLET. My father!–methinks I see my father
HORATIO Where, my lord?
HAMLET In my mind’s eye, Horatio. (H.1.2)
User Tip. Answer to ‘Where did you see this?’ when you just have a strong intuition.
In the play. Hamlet confides to Horatio to have sensed the presence of his (Hamlet’s) deceased father (even before the actual apparition of the ghost)
Search Terms. mind’s eye, intuition, extra-sensory perception, mind’s eyes, vision, feeling, unexplainable impression,
News, fake news
“… this news, which is called true, is so like an old tale, that the verity of it is in strong suspicion.” (WT.5.2)
User Tip. Adapt with a dash of sarcasm on the fake news in question. “Let me put it this way – the verity of it is in strong suspicion.” Cast general doubt about some questionable information. Also use as a variant to ‘it’s too good to be true’.
In the play. Leontes has found out who Perdita really is, (his own daughter), with great happiness of course. An anonymous gentleman comments on the event.
Search Terms. fake news, unreliable news, official news, mainstream media, corporate media,
Ambition, the new-rich
“…’tis a common proof,
That lowliness is young ambition’s ladder,
Whereto the climber-upward turns his face;
But when he once attains the upmost round,
He then unto the ladder turns his back,
Looks in the clouds, scorning the base degrees
By which he did ascend.” (JC.2.1)
User Tip. Tease a friend who has become important and now does not want to acknowledge you or help you in some way.
In the play. Brutus comments on what usually happens when circumstances elevate a man well above the level which he started from.
Search Terms. ambition, shakespeare’s quotes on ladder, ladder of ambition,
Marriage proposal
“And while thou
livest, dear Kate, take a fellow of plain and
uncoined constancy; for he perforce must do thee
right, because he hath not the gift to woo in other
places: for these fellows of infinite tongue, that
can rhyme themselves into ladies’ favours, they do
always reason themselves out again. “ (KHV.5.2)
User Tip. Of course, change ‘Kate’ with the name of your intended.
In the play. After the English victory at the battle of Agincourt, King Henry V plans to annex France and seal the deal by marrying the daughter of the defeated King of France.
Search Terms. Marriage proposal in Shakespeare,
Corruption, agent of c.
“…she that sets seeds and roots of shame and iniquity” (PER.4.6)
User Tips. Apply to Hillary Clinton or similar
In the play. Lysimachus, governor of Mytilene refers to the matron of the brothel where the spotless Marina has been sold by kidnapping pirates.
Search Terms. corruption – william shakespeare quotes about corruption
Walking, w. as a relaxation exercise
“…a turn or two I’ll walk,
To still my beating mind.” (TEM.4.1)
UserTips. Powerful reminder to keep up with moderate exercise
In the play. Prospero, resolved to thwart Caliban’s plot against him, tells Ferdinand and Miranda that he needs some time alone.
Search terms. Health-care, mental health, Shakespeare quotes on walking,
Love at first sight.
“Hear my souls speak:
The very instant that I saw you, did
My heart fly to your service” (TEM.3.1)
User Tips. Another appropriate reply to the eternal question, ‘Do you really love me?’ or similar
In the play. Ferdinando is deeply in love with Miranda.
Search terms. Love at first sight, shakespeare says about love at first sight, romance,
Appearances, a. deceiving
“Who makes the fairest show, means most deceit” (PER.1.4)
User Tips. General comment whenever you see or sense hypocrisy. Applicable to almost all modes of advertising. See George Carlin’s piece https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtK_YsVInw8
In the play. A lord has brought news of the sighting of approaching ships. The lord thinks the ships seem to come in peace, but Cleon is suspicious. The fleet is Pericles’ who, having heard of the problems of food shortages at Tharsus, has arrived with supplies.
Search terms. deceit, false appearances, advertising,
Voice, beautiful woman’s voice
“….another Juno, who starves the ears she feeds
And makes them hungry, the more she gives them speech.” (PER.5.1)
User Tips. Whenever she apologizes for having called you, maybe late in the day, or in whatever inopportune moment. Or whenever you are in the mood to give a compliment, as applicable.
In the play. Pericles, observing Marina as she sings, thinks she looks like his wife Thaisa who is believed dead. Her voice was like Juno’s. It turns out that Marina is Pericle’s daughter. Maybe it’s worthwhile to quote Ovid, “A persuasive thing is song; let women learn to sing – with many, voice instead of face has beentheir procuress.” (Art Of Loving, bk. #3)
Search terms. shakespeare quote about voice, shakespeare quote about womans voice, charming voce, woman’s voice, Shakespeare Valentine quotes,
Greed, more calling for more
“And my more having would be as a sauce
To make me hunger more: that I should forge
Quarrels unjust against the good and loyal,
Destroying them for wealth.” (M.4.3)
User Tips. Use as an example and a warning against greed, on the ground that greed feeds on itself.
In the play. Malcolm portrays himself worse than what he is to test the ground.
Search terms. shakespeare quotes about power, imperialism, capitalism, neo-liberalism,
Age, admitting to be old
“That time of year thou mayst in me behold
When yellow leaves, or none, or few, do hang
Upon those boughs which shake against the cold,
Bare ruin’d choirs where late the sweet birds sang.
In me thou seest the twilight of such day
As after sunset fadeth in the west,
Which by and by black night doth take away,
Death’s second self, that seals up all in rest.
In me thou see’st the glowing of such fire
That on the ashes of his youth doth lie,
As the death-bed whereon it must expire
Consumed with that which it was nourish’d by.
This thou perceivest, which makes thy love more strong,
To love that well which thou must leave ere long.” (SON.73)
User Tips. Excellent source to provide, for example, an answers to “how old are you?” – self effacing yet not answering. Line 1 to 4, or 5 to 6, or 9 to 10. More in general, a good reminder of the inevitable cycle of life. Do you wish to have the keys to easily remember the who sonnet by heart? Email me at jimmie.moglia@gmail.com
On the Sonnet. One among the most famous among the 154 Sonnets. The last two lines are said to have been taken or inspired by a translation of the Latin Poet Paulus Jovius by the 16th century English Poet Samuel Daniel. The critical Latin line is: Qui me alit me extinguit – Who feeds me also extinguishes me. According to the gossip mongers these Latin lines are found on the portrait of Christopher Marlow (a playwright contemporary of Shakespeare) and tattooed around the belly of actress Angelina Jolie.
Search Terms. Autumn, Fall, Shakespeare on Autumn, changing of seasons, age, aging, end of life, setting a somber mood, winter on the way,
Lady asking question or favor
“…our courteous Antony,
Whom ne’er the word of ‘No’ woman heard speak” (AC.2.2)
User Tips. Minor ‘will you do this for me?’ E.G. ‘I am like Antony, whom never the word ‘no’ woman heard speak.’ See also (in the original dictionary), ‘Women, requests from w. bound to be gratified.”
In the play. Enobarbus explains to Agrippa how Cleopatra ensnared Antony in Egypt.
Search Terms. Compliment, answering request from a woman, romance, answering woman’s question, Shakespeare romantic lines,
Love, night and morning reversed by her presence
“…’Tis fresh morning with me,
When you are by at night.” (TEM.3.1)
User Tips. Compliment, clearly. User can be imaginative with the circumstances when the quote may be suitable
In the play. Ferdinand is madly in love with Miranda.
Search Terms. Compliment, how to express love, romance, Shakespeare romantic lines, Shakespeare dialog praise compliment, Shakespeare Valentine quotes,
Masses, fickle masses
“Look, as I blow this feather from my face,
And as the air blows it to me again,
Obeying with my wind when I do blow,
And yielding to another when it blows,
Commanded always by the greater gust;
Such is the lightness of you common men.” (KHVI p3.3.1)
User Tips. The last two lines well convey the concept of the unreliability of crowds and masses.
In the play. King Henry VI has been deposed by Edward of York and two keepers use the occasion to take Henry VI prisoner in the hope of a reward. Only a little time earlier they had been his subjects.
Search Terms. Fickle masses, unreliability of masses, variability of masses, masses mood,
Ageless
“Age cannot wither her, nor custom stale
Her infinite variety. Other women cloy
The appetite they feed, but she makes
Hungry, where most she satisfies.” (AC.2.2)
User Tips. Answer to “Will you always love me even when I am old?” Change the case of the particle from ‘her’ to you and from ‘she makes’ to ‘you make’ and from ‘she’ to ‘you’.
In the play. Enobarbus, while in Rome accompanying Antony to a meeting with Octavian and Lepidus, extols to a friend Cleopatra’s talents.
Search Terms. Famous feministic shakespeare quotes, compliment to woman, Shakespeare Valentine quotes,
Hypocrisy, deceit and cunning –
“O, what authority and show of truth
Can cunning sin cover itself withal.” (MAAN.4.1)
User Tips. Comment on hypocrisy in general. See also ‘Character, a hypocrite and filthy’ – entries for ‘Appearances, a. deceptive or false.’ (In the actual YDS dictionary)
In the play. Claudio, unaware of the evil plot of Don John, believes Hero to be a slut and is angry at her.
Search Terms. quote about hypocrisy in Shakespeare,
Animals, a. better than men
“Timon will to the woods; where he shall find
The unkindest beast more kinder than mankind.” (TOA.4.1)
User Tips. This is the quote applicable to a criticism of overpopulation, i.e. “The unkindest beast more kinder than mankind.” For animals have the instinct of self-regulating their reproduction according to natural conditions. Whereas men who should regulate their fertility, if not else for the sake of their offspring, couldn’t care less.
See also (for directly referenced meanings), entries for ‘Man and its wicked nature’ – ‘Dogs, d. preferable to men’.
In the play. The overgenerous Timon, abandoned by all friends when in need of their help, retires to the wilderness.
Search Terms. overpopulation quotes by shakespeare, animals better than men,
Power and Appetite
“… Then every thing includes itself in power,
Power into will, will into appetite;
And appetite, an universal wolf,
So doubly seconded with will and power,
Must make perforce an universal prey,
And last eat up himself.” (TC.1.3)
User Tips. Optimal way to concisely describe the structure of power. Especially
when the structure is stripped of the usual sanctimonious and hypocritical expression of love for democracy or similar. See also (in the actual dictionary), ‘Management, m. and leadership crucial – The heavens themselves, the planets and this centre’
In the play. Ulysses upbraids the Greeks for their weakness and lack of unified authority.
Search Items. appetite generally wolf william shakespeare, power,
Opportunity, crime of opportunity
“O Opportunity, thy guilt is great!” (ROL, Rape of Lucrece)
User Tips. Exclamation of resignation at an insoluble problem
In the poem. Evil Tarquin knows he is committing a crime and meditates on it.
Search Items. shakespeare on crime,
Revolutions, why revolutions fail
“I thought ye would never have given out these arms till you had recovered your ancient freedom but you are all recreants and dastards, and delight to live in slavery to the nobility” (KHVI.p2.4.8)
User Tips. Reprimand for reluctant or ambivalent revolutionaries
In the play. The rabble roused by Cade listens to the message of Clifford, a nobleman, who quenches their revolutionary fervor by promising opportunity for pillage in French (as well as an imaginary invasion of London by the French.
Search Items. shakespeare on crime, revolution, revolutions, rebellions
Absence, her absence felt
““Is it thy will, thy image should keep open
My heavy eyelids to the weary night?” (SON.61)
User Tips. Compliment, equates to ‘I can’t live without you’, ‘you deprive me of sleep’, ‘your power is so strong that it interferes with one of the fundamental necessities of life’, etc.
In the Sonnet. The main burden of this sonnet seems to be ‘Why do you torture me so?’ Search Items. Shakespeare Valentine quotes, romantic Shakespeare.