William Shakespeare

Quotes are word for word from the source.

• Product speaks itself

  “Beauty itself doth of itself persuade The eyes of men without an orator.”

  Our noteShakespeare describes how inherent quality requires no external advocate.

• Silent execution

  “The fox barks not, when he would steal the lamb.”

  Our noteShakespeare notes that those with serious intent do not broadcast their plans.

• Valour and discretion

  “The better part of valour is discretion; in the which better part I have saved my life.”

  Our noteFalstaff explains that knowing when to retreat is a vital part of bravery.

• Master of fate

  “Men at some time are masters of their fates: The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, But in ourselves, that we are underlings.”

  Our noteCassius argues that people are responsible for their own positions in life.

• Intellectual humility

  “The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool.”

  Our noteTouchstone discusses the nature of wisdom and folly.

• Personal integrity

  “This above all: to thine ownself be true. And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man.”

  Our notePolonius advises his son on how to conduct himself.

• Listening over speaking

  “Give every man thy ear, but few thy voice.”

  Our notePolonius shares wisdom on social interaction and discretion.

• Power of perspective

  “There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.”

  Our noteHamlet reflects on how perception shapes reality.

• Nature of reputation

  “Reputation is an idle and most false imposition; oft got without merit and lost without deserving.”

  Our noteIago speaks about the unreliable nature of public image.

• Endurance through hardship

  “Come what come may, Time and the hour runs through the roughest day.”

  Our noteMacbeth reflects on the inevitable passage of time.