All, with one consent, praise newborn gauds, though they are made and moulded of things past

All, with one consent, praise newborn gauds, though they are made and moulded of things past

The quote “All, with one consent, praise newborn gauds, though they are made and moulded of things past” from William Shakespeare’s play “The Tempest” speaks to the universal tendency to celebrate and admire new creations, even though they are often inspired by or built upon existing ideas and materials. In this context, “gauds” refers to flashy or showy ornaments or decorations, suggesting that people are quick to praise and appreciate the latest trends and innovations, even if they are not entirely original.

Shakespeare’s observation about human nature in this quote is both astute and timeless. Throughout history, people have been drawn to novelty and innovation, often overlooking the fact that many new ideas are simply reiterations or adaptations of what has come before. This tendency to praise and celebrate the new is evident in various aspects of society, from fashion and design to technology and art.

In the world of literature, Shakespeare himself was a master at taking existing stories and themes and reimagining them in new and innovative ways. Many of his plays were based on earlier works or historical events, yet he was able to infuse them with his unique voice and perspective, creating timeless masterpieces that continue to resonate with audiences today. This ability to blend the old with the new is a hallmark of Shakespeare’s genius and is reflected in the quote “All, with one consent, praise newborn gauds, though they are made and moulded of things past.”

Furthermore, the quote can also be interpreted as a commentary on the cyclical nature of creativity and innovation. Just as new ideas are often inspired by the past, they in turn become the foundation for future generations of creators and innovators. This continuous cycle of inspiration and reinvention is what drives progress and evolution in all areas of human endeavor.