“O’ What may man within him hide, though angel on the outward side!”
- 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
“O’ What may man within him hide, though angel on the outward side!”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice reflects the idea that a person’s true nature or intentions may not always be apparent on the surface. “What may man within him hide” suggests that people often conceal their true thoughts, emotions, or motives, hiding them beneath an exterior that may seem virtuous or innocent. The phrase “though angel on the outward side” indicates that, despite presenting themselves in an outwardly pure or angelic manner, individuals may be hiding darker, more complex truths within themselves. The quote highlights the deceptive nature of appearances, where someone may appear virtuous or good, but their inner self may be quite different.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the discrepancy between appearance and reality. It reflects how people can often present a false persona to the outside world, whether for personal gain, self-protection, or out of societal expectations. It serves as a reminder that, while someone may appear outwardly perfect, angelic, or even trustworthy, their true character or intentions may be something entirely different. This is particularly relevant in contexts such as relationships, business, or politics, where manipulation or deception can be hidden behind a well-crafted public image.
Ultimately, the quote emphasizes the importance of looking beyond appearances and recognizing the complexity of human nature. It encourages us to be aware of the possibility of hidden motives and to consider both external behavior and internal character when forming judgments about others. It also invites reflection on the ways in which we, too, may hide aspects of ourselves from the world.
