“O, what a goodly outside falsehood hath!”
- 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 a goodly outside falsehood hath!”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice reflects on the deceptive nature of falsehood or deception. “O, what a goodly outside falsehood hath!” expresses surprise or dismay at how falsehood or deception can present itself in a pleasing or attractive way on the surface. The phrase “goodly outside” suggests that deception often appears to be beautiful, charming, or acceptable at first glance, masking the underlying dishonesty or corruption within. The speaker is commenting on how falsehoods can be disguised in such a way that they are misleading and often difficult to recognize until it is too late.
In modern contexts, this quote resonates with the idea that appearances can be deceiving. People or situations that appear attractive, desirable, or trustworthy on the surface may hide falsehoods, manipulation, or hidden agendas beneath. This can apply to personal relationships, business dealings, or even political situations where people or entities present a pleasant exterior to hide less favorable truths. For example, a person who acts kind and generous may be deceiving others for personal gain, or a company may advertise itself as ethical while engaging in exploitative practices.
Ultimately, this quote serves as a reminder to be cautious and critical of things that seem too good to be true. It encourages us to look beyond superficial appearances and examine deeper motivations and truths, as falsehood often presents itself in disguised forms, making it all the more dangerous.
