Monologue

Jaques Monologue from As You Like It

From As You Like It by William Shakespeare

male · philosophical · 1:13 min

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It is my only suit, Provided that you weed your better judgements Of all opinion that grows rank in them That I am wise. I must have liberty Withal, as large a charter as the wind, To blow on whom I please, for so fools have. And they that are most galled with my folly, They most must laugh. And why, sir, must they so? The “why” is plain as way to parish church. He that a fool doth very wisely hit Doth very foolishly, although he smart, Not to seem senseless of the bob. If not, The wise man’s folly is anatomized Even by the squandering glances of the fool. Invest me in my motley. Give me leave To speak my mind, and I will through and through Cleanse the foul body of th’ infected world, If they will patiently receive my medicine.

About this piece

Jaques reflects on the nature of folly and wisdom, asserting his desire for freedom to express his thoughts and critique the world around him.

30s · determination · identity · freedom · madness · power

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