Quote by William Shakespeare, The Quality

The quality of mercy is not strain'd, It droppeth as the gentle rain from heavenUpon the place beneath: it is twice blest;It blesseth him that gives and him that takes:'Tis mightiest in the mightiest: it becomesThe throned monarch better than his crown;His sceptre shows the force of temporal power,The attribute to awe and majesty,Wherein doth sit the dread and fear of kings;But mercy is above this sceptred sway;It is enthroned in the hearts of kings,It is an attribute to God himself;And earthly power doth then show likest God'sWhen mercy seasons justice...Though justice be thy plea, consider this,That, in the course of justice, none of usShould see salvation: we do pray for mercy;And that same prayer doth teach us all to renderThe deeds of mercy...


The quality of mercy is not strain'd, It droppeth as the gen

Summary

This quote, from Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice," praises the quality of mercy. It suggests that mercy is not constrained or limited, but rather flows freely like gentle rain from heaven. Mercy is seen as a double blessing, benefiting both the giver and the receiver. It is said to be even more powerful than earthly power, as it is an attribute of both kings and God. The quote emphasizes that mercy should always be considered alongside justice, as even in the pursuit of justice, the concept of salvation and the need for mercy should not be forgotten. Overall, the quote highlights the importance and noble nature of showing mercy and compassion towards others.

By William Shakespeare, The Quality
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