Vanity keeps persons in favor with themselves who are out of favor with all others

Vanity keeps persons in favor with themselves who are out of favor with all others

In the world of William Shakespeare, vanity was a common theme that often led to the downfall of many characters. The quote “Vanity keeps persons in favor with themselves who are out of favor with all others” perfectly encapsulates the essence of this theme in Shakespeare’s works.

One of the most famous examples of vanity in Shakespeare’s plays is the character of King Lear. In the play “King Lear,” Lear’s vanity and pride ultimately lead to his downfall. Despite being warned by his loyal daughter Cordelia about the consequences of his actions, Lear’s vanity blinds him to the truth and he is ultimately betrayed by those closest to him. His obsession with his own image and reputation causes him to lose everything he holds dear, including his kingdom and his sanity.

Another example of vanity in Shakespeare’s works can be seen in the character of Macbeth. In the play “Macbeth,” Macbeth’s ambition and vanity drive him to commit heinous acts in order to gain power and prestige. His obsession with his own image and reputation leads him to murder King Duncan and others in order to secure his position as king. However, his vanity ultimately leads to his downfall as he becomes consumed by guilt and paranoia, ultimately leading to his own demise.