So the heart be right, it is no matter which way the head lieth

So the heart be right, it is no matter which way the head lieth

Sir Walter Raleigh was a prominent figure in the court of Queen Elizabeth I of England, known for his military prowess, exploration of the New World, and literary talents. He was a man of many contradictions, often seen as both a hero and a villain in the eyes of history. One of his most famous quotes, “So the heart be right, it is no matter which way the head lieth,” reflects his complex character and the moral dilemmas he faced throughout his life.

Raleigh was a man of great ambition and intelligence, with a keen sense of duty and loyalty to his queen. He was willing to do whatever it took to advance his own interests and those of his country, even if it meant sacrificing his own principles. This quote speaks to Raleigh’s belief that as long as one’s intentions are pure and true, the means by which one achieves their goals are of little consequence.

Throughout his career, Raleigh was involved in numerous controversial and morally ambiguous actions. He was accused of treason, conspiracy, and even murder, yet he always maintained his innocence and claimed that he was acting in the best interests of England. His unwavering loyalty to the crown and his willingness to do whatever it took to protect his country earned him both admiration and condemnation from his contemporaries.

Raleigh’s quote can be interpreted in many ways, but it ultimately speaks to the idea that one’s intentions are what truly matter in the end. Despite his many flaws and questionable actions, Raleigh believed that as long as his heart was in the right place, he could justify any means necessary to achieve his goals. This philosophy may have been his downfall in the end, as his actions eventually caught up with him and led to his downfall.