"Faith, there hath been many great men that have flattered the people who ne'er loved them"
- William Shakespeare
About this Quote
This quote is from Act 2, Scene 3 of the play "Coriolanus" by William Shakespeare. In this scene, the personality Menenius is trying to encourage the plebeians (typical people) to forgive Coriolanus, a well-off and powerful patrician who dishonored them during a political disagreement. Menenius argues that Coriolanus was only talking his mind which he has actually constantly been an endure as well as honorable soldier who defended the people's well-being.
Nevertheless, among the plebeians says that Coriolanus just respects his own rate of interests and that he has never really liked or took care of individuals. Menenius then reacts with the quote "Faith, there have actually been several fantastic men that have flattered the people who ne'er liked them", indicating that it is not unusual for politicians as well as leaders to make use of flattery as well as propaganda to win the people's support, also if they do not absolutely appreciate them.
This quote can be interpreted as a warning against blind rely on leaders and also political leaders that make use of appeal and also unsupported claims to adjust public opinion. It likewise recommends that real love and also loyalty can not be fabricated or required, and that individuals must be wary of those that claim to have their benefits in mind without any actual evidence of their sincerity.