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About this quote

What does it mean?
Extreme violence begets suffering with no clear winner.
In plain terms
Violence hurts everyone.
What can you take from it?
Avoid escalating harm even when provoked.

Where it applies

  • cycle of harm
  • retribution
  • conflict

Putting it to work

  • break cycles
  • seek mediation
  • document harm

Questions to consider

  • When does revenge fail?
  • How to stop escalating harm?

Another view

The play’s shock value may reduce practical clarity.

More from William Shakespeare

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  2. On a day-alack the day!- Love, whose month is ever May, Spied a blossom passing fair Playing in the wanton air

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  3. Crabbed age and youth cannot live together: Youth is full of pleasure, age is full of care

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