I did but dream o coward conscience, how dost thou afflict me!

I did but dream o coward conscience, how dost thou afflict me!

The line "I did but dream o coward conscience, how dost thou afflict me!" is from William Shakespeare's play, "Richard III." In this play, the character of Richard III is a complex and multifaceted villain who is known for his manipulation, deceit, and ruthlessness. This particular line is spoken by Richard III in Act V, Scene III, as he is haunted by guilt and remorse for the heinous acts he has committed in his quest for power.

The phrase "coward conscience" reflects Richard's inner turmoil and conflict between his ruthless ambition and his moral compass. Despite his outward bravado and lack of remorse for his actions, Richard is ultimately plagued by his own conscience, which torments him with guilt and self-doubt. The use of the word "coward" suggests that Richard's conscience is weak and ineffective in preventing him from committing evil deeds, yet it still manages to afflict him with feelings of guilt and regret.

Richard's lamentation of his conscience in this line highlights the internal struggle he faces as he grapples with the consequences of his actions. Despite his efforts to suppress his guilt and justify his behavior, Richard is unable to escape the torment of his own conscience. This moment of vulnerability and self-reflection humanizes Richard and adds depth to his character, showing that even the most ruthless and cunning individuals are not immune to the pangs of guilt and remorse.

Overall, this line captures the complexity of Richard III as a character and explores the themes of morality, conscience, and the consequences of one's actions. It serves as a poignant reminder of the power of guilt and self-awareness in shaping one's destiny, even for a character as cunning and manipulative as Richard III. Shakespeare's exploration of these themes through Richard's inner turmoil adds depth and nuance to the play, making it a timeless and enduring work of literature.