In time we hate that which we often fear.
 William Shakespeare, Antony and Cleopatra (1623). copy citation

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Author William Shakespeare
Source Antony and Cleopatra
Topic fear time hate
Date 1623
Language English
Reference Antony and Cleopatra, Act I, Scene 3
Note Written between 1603 and 1607 Charmian line
Weblink http://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/1534/pg1534-images.html

Context

“What should I do, I do not? CHARMIAN. In each thing give him way; cross him in nothing. CLEOPATRA. Thou teachest like a fool,—the way to lose him. CHARMIAN. Tempt him not so too far; I wish, forbear; In time we hate that which we often fear. But here comes Antony. [Enter ANTONY.]
CLEOPATRA. I am sick and sullen. ANTONY. I am sorry to give breathing to my purpose,— CLEOPATRA. Help me away, dear Charmian; I shall fall; It cannot be thus long, the sides of nature” source

Meaning and analysis

Kwize Master During a conversation with Charmian, Cleopatra expresses her desire to seduce Antony by using a stratagem of adopting an attitude contrary to his own. Charmian tells her that he thinks that the opposite would be more effective, and that this kind of behavior is tiresome in the long run and leads to an opposite effect to that desired.
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