Famous Quotes From Shakespeare

Introduction

William Shakespeare was an English poet, playwright and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. He is often called England's national poet and the "Bard of Avon". His surviving works consist of 38 plays, 154 sonnets, two long narrative poems, and several other poems. His plays have been translated into every major living language and are performed more often than those of any other playwright.

Quotes From Shakespeare

Shakespeare is known for his iconic quotes that are as relevant today as they were when he wrote them centuries ago. Here are some of the most famous quotes from the Bard of Avon:

1. “To be, or not to be: that is the question.”

This line is from Shakespeare's play Hamlet and is spoken by the title character. It is a soliloquy, in which Hamlet is considering whether life is worth living or whether he should end it. The line is often used to refer to facing a difficult decision.

2. “All the world's a stage, and all the men and women merely players.”

This line is from the play As You Like It and is spoken by the character Jaques. It is often used to refer to the idea that everyone's life is a performance and that we are all playing a role.

3. “This above all: to thine own self be true.”

This line is from Hamlet and is spoken by Polonius to his son Laertes. It is often used to refer to the importance of being true to yourself and living authentically.

4. “Love all, trust a few, do wrong to none.”

This line is from the play All's Well That Ends Well and is spoken by the character Countess. It is often used as a reminder to be open and loving to all people, but to be wary of trusting too many people and not to do wrong to anyone.

5. “The course of true love never did run smooth.”

This line is from A Midsummer Night's Dream and is spoken by Lysander. It is often used to refer to the difficulties and obstacles that are encountered in any relationship, particularly in love.

6. “Cowards die many times before their deaths; the valiant never taste of death but once.”

This line is from Julius Caesar and is spoken by the character Julius Caesar. It is often used to refer to the idea that the brave and courageous face their fears and do not let them stop them from achieving their goals.

7. “Be not afraid of greatness: some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.”

This line is from the play Twelfth Night and is spoken by the character Malvolio. It is often used to refer to the idea that greatness can come from any source and that everyone has the potential to achieve greatness.

8. “We know what we are, but know not what we may be.”

This line is from Hamlet and is spoken by the character Ophelia. It is often used to refer to the idea that we can never be sure of what the future may bring, and that we should always keep an open mind and prepare for any eventuality.

9. “If you can look into the seeds of time, and say which grain will grow and which will not, speak then to me.”

This line is from Macbeth and is spoken by the character Macbeth. It is often used to refer to the idea that we can never be sure of the future and that we should accept what it may bring, instead of trying to predict it.

Conclusion

William Shakespeare is one of the most influential writers of all time. His works are full of timeless quotes that can be applied to modern life. Whether you are facing a difficult decision, struggling with a relationship, or simply looking for inspiration, Shakespeare has something to offer.