He uses his folly like a stalking-horse, and under the presentation of that he shoots his wit.
 William Shakespeare, As You Like It (1623). copy citation

edit
Author William Shakespeare
Source As You Like It
Topic foolishness cleverness
Date 1623
Language English
Reference
Note Written between 1598 and 1599
Weblink http://www.gutenberg.org/files/1523/1523-h/1523-h.htm

Context

“I knew when seven justices could not take up a quarrel; but when the parties were met themselves, one of them thought but of an "If", as: "If you said so, then I said so;" and they shook hands, and swore brothers. Your "If" is the only peace-maker;—much virtue in "If."
JAQUES Is not this a rare fellow, my lord? he's as good at anything, and yet a fool.
DUKE SENIOR He uses his folly like a stalking-horse, and under the presentation of that he shoots his wit. [Enter HYMEN, leading ROSALIND in woman's clothes; and CELIA.] [Still MUSIC.] HYMEN
Then is there mirth in heaven, When earthly things made even Atone together. Good duke, receive thy daughter; Hymen from heaven brought her,” source

Meaning and analysis

write a note
report