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I had rather be a dog, and bay the moon, Than such a Roman.
William Shakespeare
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote expresses a preference for a simple, honest life over the complexities of high society.

In this quote, Shakespeare suggests that he would prefer the unrefined existence of a dog, who howls at the moon, than the deceitful and corrupt life of a Roman. This reflects a disdain for the moral decay often associated with power and status, advocating for authenticity and simplicity over societal expectations and pretensions.

Themes

HonestyLifeSocietySimplicityAuthenticity

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a discussion about the value of authenticity over social status.

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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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Lord, Lord, how this world is given to lying!
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Give it an understanding, but no tongue.
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