Measure for Measure (Folger Shakespeare Library)

by William Shakespeare

We have strict statutes and most biting laws, 20 The needful bits and curbs to headstrong weeds, 21 Which for this fourteen years we have let slip, 22 Even like an o’ergrown lion in a cave 23 That goes not out to prey.

Hence shall we see, 57 If power change purpose, what our seemers be.

doubts are traitors 85 And makes us lose the good we oft might win 86 By fearing to attempt.

O, it is excellent 135 To have a giant’s strength, but it is tyrannous 136 To use it like a giant.

O, what may man within him hide, 271 Though angel on the outward side!

They say best men are molded out of faults, 503 And, for the most, become much more the better 504 For being a little bad.

For Angelo, 515 His act did not o’ertake his bad intent, 516 And must be buried but as an intent 517 That perished by the way. Thoughts are no subjects, 518 Intents but merely thoughts.