Thou shalt be both the plaintiff and the judge of thine own cause

Thou shalt be both the plaintiff and the judge of thine own cause

In the context of William Shakespeare's works, the idea of being both the plaintiff and the judge of one's own cause is a recurring theme that is explored in various plays and sonnets. This concept speaks to the idea of self-reflection, self-awareness, and the ability to take responsibility for one's actions and decisions.

One of the most famous examples of this theme can be found in Shakespeare's play "Hamlet." In this tragedy, the protagonist, Hamlet, is faced with the task of avenging his father's murder. Throughout the play, Hamlet grapples with his own sense of justice and morality, ultimately becoming both the plaintiff and the judge of his own cause. He must decide whether to take action against his uncle, King Claudius, who is responsible for his father's death. Hamlet's internal struggle and his eventual decision to seek revenge highlight the complexities of being both the plaintiff and the judge in one's own cause.