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).
William ShakespeareRead
Sweet mercy is nobility's true badge.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True nobility is defined by acts of mercy and compassion.
In this quote, Shakespeare emphasizes that genuine nobility is not measured by one's title or wealth, but rather by the kindness and compassion one shows toward others. Acts of mercy reflect a person's character and true greatness, suggesting that compassion is more valuable than superficial status.
Themes
NobilityMercyCompassionKindnessCharacter
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about social responsibility and community service.
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