“In peace there's nothing so becomes a man as modest stillness and humility; but when the blast of war blows in our ears, then imitate the action of the tiger; stiffen the sinews, summon up the blood, disguise fair nature with hard-favor'd rage.”
Quote Analysis
In this quote by William Shakespeare, the speaker highlights the contrast between the virtues of peace and those required in times of war. The speaker emphasizes the importance of exhibiting modesty, stillness, and humility during times of peace, as these qualities are seen as honorable and becoming of a man. However, when faced with the chaos and brutality of war, the speaker advises one to transform into a fierce and relentless fighter, likening the individual to a tiger. This shift in behavior, from peaceful to warlike, demonstrates the versatility and adaptability required of individuals in different circumstances. It also reflects the idea that one must have the ability to respond appropriately to the changing demands of their environment in order to survive and succeed.
Modern Relevance
Shakespeare's words from "Henry V" still hold true in modern times, emphasizing the importance of adjusting one's behavior based on the situation at hand. This quote highlights the contrast between the traits of humility and aggression, and presents a reflection on the dual nature of human behavior in different circumstances.
In today's world, individuals must navigate various environments that demand different responses. It is crucial to recognize when to embody humility and stillness, and when to display strength and aggression. Adapting to these situations with grace and wisdom is a valuable skill that can lead to success in both personal and professional endeavors.
Shakespeare on Modesty and Aggression
"In peace there's nothing so becomes a man as modest stillness and humility; but when the blast of war blows in our ears, then imitate the action of the tiger; stiffen the sinews, summon up the blood, disguise fair nature with hard-favor'd rage." - William Shakespeare
Reflective Questions
When do you find yourself embodying modesty and humility, and when do you feel the need to adopt a more aggressive and fierce demeanor? How do you navigate between the two extremes of peace and war in your own life? What does Shakespeare's quote teach us about the duality of human nature and the need to adapt to different circumstances with grace and strength?
Similar quotes
“Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more;Or close the wall up with our English dead.In peace there's nothing so becomes a manAs modest stillness and humility:But when the blast of war blows in our ears,Then imitate the action of the tiger;Stiffen the sinews, summon up the blood,Disguise fair nature with hard-favour'd rage;Then lend the eye a terrible aspect;Let pry through the portage of the headLike the brass cannon; let the brow o'erwhelm itAs fearfully as doth a galled rockO'erhang and jutty his confounded base,Swill'd with the wild and wasteful ocean.Now set the teeth and stretch the nostril wide,Hold hard the breath and bend up every spiritTo his full height. On, on, you noblest English.Whose blood is fet from fathers of war-proof!Fathers that, like so many Alexanders,Have in these parts from morn till even foughtAnd sheathed their swords for lack of argument:Dishonour not your mothers; now attestThat those whom you call'd fathers did beget you.Be copy now to men of grosser blood,And teach them how to war. And you, good yeoman,Whose limbs were made in England, show us hereThe mettle of your pasture; let us swearThat you are worth your breeding; which I doubt not;For there is none of you so mean and base,That hath not noble lustre in your eyes.I see you stand like greyhounds in the slips,Straining upon the start. The game's afoot:Follow your spirit, and upon this chargeCry 'God for Harry, England, and Saint George!”
“Man invents war. Man discovers peace. He invents war from without. He discovers peace from within. War man throws. Peace man sows. The smile of war is the flood of human blood. The smile of peace is the love, below, above.”
“In reality there is perhaps no one of our natural Passions so hard to subdue as Pride. Disguise it, struggle with it, beat it down, stifle it, mortify it as much as one pleases, it is still alive, and will now and then peek out and show itself.”
“In reality, there is, perhaps, no one of our natural passions so hard to subdue as pride. Disguise it, struggle with it, beat it down, stifle it, mortify it as much as one pleases, it is still alive, and will every now and then peep out and show itself; you will see it, perhaps, often in this history; for, even if I could conceive that I had compleatly overcome it, I should probably be proud of my humility.”
“Blood hardly defines one's character. We are made by our actions, not our blood. - Soren”