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A miracle. Here's our own hands against our hearts. Come, I will have thee, but by this light I take thee for pity. Beatrice: I would not deny you, but by this good day, I yield upon great persuasion, and partly to save your life, for I was told you were in a consumption. Benedick: Peace. I will stop your mouth.
William Shakespeare
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote reflects the complexities of love and compassion in relationships.

In this exchange between Beatrice and Benedick from Shakespeare's play, the characters reveal their true feelings intertwined with a sense of pity. Beatrice acknowledges her reluctance but is swayed by compassion for Benedick, showcasing how love can be motivated by both genuine affection and external circumstances.

Themes

LovePityRelationshipCompassionSacrifice

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a romantic setting to highlight the delicate balance of love and compassion.

More from William Shakespeare

As honour, love, obedience, troops of friends, / I must not look to have; but, in their stead, / Curses, not loud but deep, mouth-honour, breath, / Which the poor heart would fain deny, and dare not" (5.3.25-28).
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Love bears it out even to the edge of doom.
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Good company, good wine, good welcome, can make good people.
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Absence doth sharpen love, presence strengthens it; the one brings fuel, the other blows it till it burns clear.
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Lord, Lord, how this world is given to lying!
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Give it an understanding, but no tongue.
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