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As he was valiant, I honour him. But as he was ambitious, I slew him.
William Shakespeare
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Honoring someone's bravery while acknowledging that their ambition led to their downfall.

This quote reflects the complex nature of human qualities, particularly bravery and ambition. It emphasizes the idea that while we may respect and honor those who exhibit courage, we must also be wary of ambition, which can lead to destructive actions and consequences. Shakespeare presents a nuanced view of character, illustrating how the virtues and vices of individuals can coexist and ultimately influence their fate.

Themes

HonorAmbitionValiantSlayCharacter

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about the duality of human nature in literature.

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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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Love bears it out even to the edge of doom.
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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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