“Faith, there hath been many great men that have flattered the people who ne’er loved them.”
- 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
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Quote
“Faith, there hath been many great men that have flattered the people who ne’er loved them.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice addresses the idea that even those who are great or influential may resort to flattery to win the favor of people who do not genuinely like or respect them. “Faith” here is an exclamation, expressing a sense of conviction or emphasis. The speaker points out that many great men—those who have achieved significant power, success, or prestige—have sometimes flattered others not out of sincerity, but to achieve their own goals or gain approval. The phrase “who ne’er loved them” suggests that these individuals did not have the genuine affection or respect of others, yet still, the great men sought to win them over with false praise.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the idea that manipulation through flattery is not limited to lesser individuals, but is also a tool used by powerful figures to sway opinion, gain support, or maintain influence. For example, in politics or business, leaders might use compliments or praise to win over critics or rivals, even if they do not truly respect or care for them. The quote highlights how self-interest can sometimes lead even those who seem virtuous to use dishonest means to achieve their ends.
Ultimately, this quote emphasizes the complexity of relationships and human behavior, especially when power dynamics are at play. It reminds us that flattery can be a strategic and manipulative tool, even in the hands of those who are otherwise considered great or influential, and it encourages us to be wary of false praise and to seek authenticity in our interactions.
