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She's beautiful, and therefore to be wooed; She is a woman, therefore to be won.
William Shakespeare
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote expresses the idea that beauty attracts attention, and women may be sought for both admiration and affection.

In this quote, Shakespeare highlights the dual nature of a woman's beauty and essence. He suggests that a woman's beauty makes her an object of desire, prompting pursuit ('to be wooed'), while acknowledging her identity and the need for deeper connection and emotional resonance that comes with nurturing a relationship ('to be won'). It reflects the dynamics of romantic interactions and the importance of both attraction and emotional engagement.

Themes

BeautyLoveWomanDesireRomance

In practice

Example use cases

In a wedding speech, to describe the beauty and charm of the bride.

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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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Lord, Lord, how this world is given to lying!
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Give it an understanding, but no tongue.
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