“Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.”
- 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
table of contents
Quote
“Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind, And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream explores the idea that true love is not based on physical appearance but on deeper, emotional connection and inner qualities. “Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind” suggests that love is not merely a superficial attraction to someone’s looks but is rooted in the way we perceive and understand each other’s character, values, and inner essence. The second part, “And therefore is winged Cupid painted blind”, refers to the mythological figure of Cupid, the god of love, who is often depicted as blindfolded. This image symbolizes that love transcends physical sight and is guided instead by emotion and intuition.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the idea that authentic love goes beyond external appearances and is based on emotional bonds and shared values. In a society where looks and superficiality are often emphasized, the quote reminds us that true love is founded on mutual respect, understanding, and the inner qualities of a person, not just what can be seen on the outside. For instance, in relationships, people often find that love deepens not because of physical attraction but because of a connection of minds—empathy, support, shared experiences, and common goals.
Ultimately, this quote encourages the idea that love is not rational or superficial. It suggests that love is guided by the heart and mind, not simply by external factors, and that true affection arises from understanding and appreciating the whole person, beyond what is visible. Cupid’s blindness serves as a reminder that love is a powerful force that is not swayed by sight, but by inner emotions and connections.
