“Love is too young to know what conscience is.”
- 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
“Love is too young to know what conscience is.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice reflects the idea that love, especially in its early or immature stages, is driven by emotion and desire, rather than by a sense of moral reasoning or conscience. “Love is too young” implies that young love is often impulsive, reckless, and not yet tempered by the wisdom or responsibility that comes with time. “To know what conscience is” suggests that love, in its early form, does not always consider the moral implications of actions, as it is more focused on immediate gratification and passion rather than ethical considerations.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks to the idea that infatuation or new love is often intense and all-consuming, but it may not be fully aware of the long-term consequences or the responsibilities that come with deeper, more mature love. It can also apply to situations where people, driven by strong emotions, make decisions without fully considering the moral or ethical implications of their actions. For example, in relationships or situations where strong feelings are involved, one might act out of impulse rather than reason, which can lead to mistakes or misunderstandings.
Ultimately, this quote reflects on the youthful nature of love, which is often unrestrained and emotionally driven, before it matures into something more thoughtful, responsible, and conscious of the moral dimensions of relationships and actions. It highlights the development of love as it grows beyond mere passion to include self-awareness, compassion, and ethical consideration.
