Tell troth and shame the devil.
Ben JonsonRead
We are persons of quality, I assure you, and women of fashion, and come to see and to be seen.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the social dynamics of individuals who elevate their status through appearances and presence in fashionable circles.
In this quote, Ben Jonson highlights the superficiality of social interactions among the elite, where the importance lies more in one's image and reputation rather than genuine character or substance. The emphasis on being both 'persons of quality' and 'women of fashion' underscores a societal trend where visibility and style overshadow deeper values, making the act of 'seeing and being seen' a fundamental aspect of their existence.
Themes
FashionPresenceStatusSocial DynamicsAppearance
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about the importance of fashion in modern society.
More from Ben Jonson
All quotes βAll concord's born of contraries.
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Queen and huntress, chaste and fair Now the sun is laid to sleep, Seated in thy silver chair, State in wonted manner keep: Hesperus entreats thy light Goddess, excellently bright.
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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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Very few men are wise by their own council, or learned by their own teaching. For he that was only taught by himself, had a fool for a master.
Ben JonsonRead
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