18+ Thought of the Day by William Shakespeare

1. To thine own self be true.
Source: Hamlet, Act 1, Scene 3

This timeless advice from Polonius to his son Laertes reminds us to stay true to our values and beliefs. Authenticity is the foundation of integrity and self-respect.

3. The course of true love never did run smooth.
Source: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Act 1, Scene 1

Love is a complex and often tumultuous journey. This line reminds us that challenges are a natural part of love and relationships, and overcoming them can strengthen our bonds.

4. Brevity is the soul of wit.
Source: Hamlet, Act 2, Scene 2

In an age of information overload, Shakespeare’s reminder that concise communication is powerful remains relevant. Clear and succinct expression is often the most effective.

6. There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.
Source: Hamlet, Act 2, Scene 2

Our perception shapes our reality. This line suggests that our attitudes and thoughts play a crucial role in determining our experiences and outlook on life.

8. A fool thinks himself to be wise, but a wise man knows himself to be a fool.
Source: As You Like It, Act 5, Scene 1

Humility and self-awareness are hallmarks of true wisdom. Recognizing our limitations and the vastness of what we don’t know is a sign of intellectual maturity.

10. The better part of valor is discretion.
Source: Henry IV, Part 1, Act 5, Scene 4

Courage is not just about bold actions but also about knowing when to act and when to hold back. Wisdom lies in choosing battles wisely and exercising prudence.

1. To be, or not to be: that is the question.
Source: Hamlet, Act 3, Scene 1

This iconic line from Hamlet’s soliloquy reflects his deep existential angst and contemplation of life and death. It is one of the most quoted lines in all of English literature.

3. A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.
Source: Romeo and Juliet, Act 2, Scene 2

Juliet speaks these words, arguing that a name is an arbitrary label and does not affect the essence of what it describes. This line has come to symbolize the idea that the intrinsic qualities of a thing are more important than what it is called.

5. The lady doth protest too much, methinks.
Source: Hamlet, Act 3, Scene 2

Queen Gertrude says this line during the play-within-a-play, commenting on the Player Queen’s excessive declarations of fidelity. It is often quoted to suggest that someone is insincere because they are overly emphatic in their denials.

Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt.
Source: Measure for Measure, Act 1, Scene 4

Fear and self-doubt can be our greatest obstacles. This quote encourages us to overcome our fears and take action, as inaction often leads to missed opportunities.

But, soft! what light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.
Source: Romeo and Juliet, Act 2, Scene 2

In this line, Romeo compares Juliet to the sun, highlighting her importance and radiance in his life. The metaphor emphasizes her beauty and the way she illuminates his world, making it one of the most romantic expressions of love in Shakespeare’s works.

This above all: to thine own self be true.
Source: Hamlet, Act 1, Scene 3

This advice from Polonius to his son Laertes in “Hamlet” emphasizes the importance of integrity and self-honesty. It suggests that being true to oneself is the foundation of living a good and fulfilling life, resonating with the idea that personal authenticity and integrity are crucial.

The better part of valor is discretion.
Source: Henry IV, Part 1, Act 5, Scene 4

This quote implies that wisdom and prudence are essential components of courage and that understanding when to act and when to hold back is crucial for a balanced and successful life.