“ Though it be honest, it is never good to bring bad news: give to a gracious message an host of tongues; but let ill tidings tell themselves when they be felt. ”
William Shakespeare, Antony and Cleopatra (1623). copy citation
| Author | William Shakespeare |
|---|---|
| Source | Antony and Cleopatra |
| Topic | honesty bad news |
| Date | 1623 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | Antony and Cleopatra, Act II, Scene 5 |
| Note | Written between 1603 and 1607 Cleopatra line |
| Weblink | http://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/1534/pg1534-images.html |
Meaning and analysis
Kwize Master
After Antony agreed to marry Caesar's sister, Octavia, to strengthen their political alliance, a messenger from Italy brings this news to Cleopatra. She then gets angry at him, threatening to kill him if he confirms this odious information. After calming down, Cleopatra tells him that if it is more honest to report bad news, it is better to let the unfortunate events make themselves known.
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useless
