But since the affairs of men rests still incertain, let's reason with the worst that may befall

But since the affairs of men rests still incertain, let's reason with the worst that may befall

In the world of William Shakespeare, uncertainty and unpredictability are common themes that run through many of his plays. The quote, “But since the affairs of men rests still incertain, let's reason with the worst that may befall,” encapsulates this idea perfectly. Shakespeare often explores the idea that human affairs are subject to the whims of fate and that the future is always uncertain.

One of the most famous examples of this theme can be found in Shakespeare’s play “Macbeth.” The character of Macbeth is a prime example of someone who is consumed by uncertainty and fear of the future. He is constantly haunted by the witches’ prophecies and is driven to commit heinous acts in order to secure his place on the throne. Macbeth’s descent into madness and paranoia is a direct result of his inability to accept the uncertainty of his fate.

Similarly, in “Hamlet,” the titular character grapples with the uncertainty of his own destiny. Hamlet is torn between his desire for revenge and his fear of the consequences of his actions. He is constantly questioning the nature of fate and whether or not he has the power to change his own destiny. The quote, “But since the affairs of men rests still incertain, let's reason with the worst that may befall,” could easily be applied to Hamlet’s internal struggle with the unknown.

Shakespeare’s exploration of uncertainty and the unpredictable nature of human affairs is a reflection of the larger themes of his work. He often delves into the complexities of human nature and the ways in which we are all subject to the forces of fate. The quote serves as a reminder that, in the face of uncertainty, it is important to prepare for the worst while still hoping for the best. Shakespeare’s characters may be flawed and imperfect, but they are always grappling with the same questions that have plagued humanity for centuries.