Noble Leadership

In my morning study time today, I was reminded of one of my favorite lines from Shakespeare’s Hamlet. It goes like this: “Use every man after his desert, and who shall ’scape whipping?… The less they deserve, the more merit is in your bounty” (Act II, scene ii). These lines suggest that people should be treated according fairly and justly and according to what they truly deserve. When we show someone kindness or generosity, even if more than they merit, it indicates a noble and commendable spirit on the giver’s part. Conversely, if we judge others strictly by their true worth, what Shakespeare described as “after his desert”, then unjust treatment or punishment might be inevitable.

Shakespeare was emphasizing the virtue in generous and fair treatment, even towards those who might not seem to deserve it, highlighting the moral integrity of benevolence. I have blogged about this idea of showing grace and not judging based on a person’s weakest moment in Weakest Moments.

Byron's Babbles