Tell troth and shame the devil.
Ben JonsonRead
He threatens many that hath injured one.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that those who seek revenge or harm others often end up threatening many more individuals than they originally intended.
Ben Jonson's quote highlights the consequences of taking revenge or seeking to harm those who have wronged us. It illustrates the idea that when one person is wronged, the cycle of retaliation can lead to a much larger conflict, affecting not just the individuals directly involved, but also the broader community, leading to a cycle of injury and revenge that perpetuates harm. This serves as a caution against the desire for vengeance, urging people to consider the wider implications of their actions.
Themes
RevengeConsequencesInjuryHarmConflict
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the impact of revenge on relationships, one could quote Jonson to emphasize the ripple effect it can have.
More from Ben Jonson
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I know no disease of the soul but ignorance, a pernicious evil, the darkener of man's life, the disturber of his reason, and common confounder of truth.
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You are not now to think what's best to do, _x000D_ As in beginnings, but what must be done, _x000D_ Being thus enter'd; and slip no advantage _x000D_ That may secure you. Let them call it mischief; _x000D_ When it is past, and prosper'd , 'twill be virtue.
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