As in the presence of the Master, the Servants are equall, and without any honour at all; So are the Subjects, in the presence of the Soveraign. And though they shine some more, some lesse, when they are out of his sight; yet in his presence, they shine no more than the Starres in presence of the Sun.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- In the presence of a supreme authority, all individuals are equal and lack distinct honor, much like stars are invisible in sunlight.
- In plain terms
- Everyone is equal before the sovereign, just as stars disappear in the sun's light.
- What can you take from it?
- Authority levels all social distinctions when present.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does power affect perceived equality?
- When do individuals shine brightest?
Another view
It oversimplifies how prestige persists even under strong authority.
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