“What, man, defy the devil. Consider, he’s an enemy to mankind.”
- 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
“What, man, defy the devil. Consider, he’s an enemy to mankind.”
Explanation
This quote from Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice urges the speaker to resist and oppose evil, represented by the devil, who is described as “an enemy to mankind.” The phrase “What, man” expresses disbelief or challenge, encouraging the listener to take a strong stand against evil or wrongdoing. “Defy the devil” calls for a bold, direct resistance to evil forces, while “he’s an enemy to mankind” emphasizes the broader harm the devil represents to all of humanity, suggesting that standing against evil is a moral duty for the greater good.
In modern contexts, this quote can be interpreted as a call to resist immorality, injustice, or corruption, as these forces are harmful to individuals and society as a whole. It speaks to the idea that evil, whether in the form of temptation, selfishness, or harmful behaviors, should be actively opposed, as it works against the welfare of all people. It encourages a strong moral stance and encourages individuals to take action when faced with wrongdoings, rather than remaining passive or complicit.
Ultimately, this quote reflects the importance of moral courage and ethical responsibility in the face of evil or wrongdoing. It suggests that to uphold the common good, we must be willing to defy harmful forces and actively work toward a more just and moral society.
