“If we are marked to die, we are enough to do our country loss; and if to live, the fewer men, the greater share of honor.”
- April 26, 1564 – April 23, 1616
- Born in England
- Playwright, poet, actor
- Wrote many masterpieces such as “Hamlet,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and “Macbeth,” and had a great influence on English literature
Quote
“If we are marked to die, we are enough to do our country loss; and if to live, the fewer men, the greater share of honor.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s Henry V speaks to themes of destiny, sacrifice, and honor. “If we are marked to die” refers to the fate of soldiers who, knowing they may not survive, still accept their role in defending their country. The idea is that even a small number of men can have a significant impact when they are called to duty, as they are enough to represent their nation’s loss in death. Sacrifice and duty are key themes here, emphasizing that a person’s life is not just their own but is tied to something larger—their country and its future.
The second part of the quote, “the fewer men, the greater share of honor,” suggests that when fewer soldiers are involved in a battle, each individual’s actions become more significant, and the honor they receive for their bravery is greater. This is an appeal to the idea that heroism shines brighter in the face of adversity when the odds are stacked against a small group, giving their deeds more value. Historically, this kind of rhetoric was used to motivate soldiers during times of war, encouraging them to take pride in their contribution regardless of the outcomes.
In the modern world, this quote can be applied to situations where individuals are asked to make sacrifices for a greater cause, whether in military service, personal struggles, or even social movements. The idea that fewer people taking on great challenges can elevate their sense of honor and responsibility still holds true today. It reminds us that the value of one’s actions is not always determined by numbers or success but by the courage and commitment behind them.
