Lord, Lord, how subject we old men are to this vice of lying!

Lord, Lord, how subject we old men are to this vice of lying!

In the works of William Shakespeare, the theme of deception and lying is a prevalent one. Characters often resort to falsehoods and deceit in order to achieve their goals or manipulate others. One of the most famous quotes related to this theme is from the play "King Lear," where the character Gloucester exclaims, "Lord, Lord, how subject we old men are to this vice of lying!"

In "King Lear," Gloucester is a tragic figure who is deceived by his illegitimate son Edmund and ultimately betrayed by his legitimate son Edgar. Gloucester's realization of his own vulnerability to deception reflects a larger theme in the play of the destructive power of lies and deceit. The quote also speaks to the idea that lying is not just a flaw of youth, but a vice that can affect people of all ages.

Shakespeare often explores the consequences of lying in his plays, showing how falsehoods can lead to misunderstandings, betrayal, and tragedy. Characters like Iago in "Othello" and Lady Macbeth in "Macbeth" use lies and manipulation to further their own ambitions, ultimately leading to their downfall. The quote from "King Lear" serves as a reminder of the dangers of deceit and the importance of honesty and integrity.