Small to greater matters must give way

Small to greater matters must give way

The phrase "Small to greater matters must give way" is a powerful statement that encapsulates the themes of power, ambition, and sacrifice in many of William Shakespeare's works. Throughout his plays, Shakespeare explores the idea that sometimes individuals must prioritize larger goals or responsibilities over personal desires or smaller concerns.

One of the most famous examples of this theme can be found in Shakespeare's tragedy "Macbeth." In this play, the protagonist Macbeth is consumed by his ambition to become king, leading him to commit murder and betrayal in order to achieve his goal. As Macbeth's ambition grows, he becomes increasingly willing to sacrifice his morals, his relationships, and ultimately his own life in pursuit of power. The phrase "Small to greater matters must give way" perfectly encapsulates Macbeth's descent into darkness as he prioritizes his own ambition over everything else.

Similarly, in "Julius Caesar," Shakespeare explores the theme of sacrifice and loyalty in the face of larger political concerns. The character of Brutus must grapple with his personal friendship with Caesar and his loyalty to Rome, ultimately choosing to betray Caesar in order to protect the greater good of the Roman Republic. The phrase "Small to greater matters must give way" reflects Brutus's internal struggle as he sacrifices his personal relationships for the sake of his country.