For there was never yet fair woman but she made mouths in a glass

For there was never yet fair woman but she made mouths in a glass

The quote "For there was never yet fair woman but she made mouths in a glass" is from William Shakespeare's play "King Lear." In this context, the quote is spoken by the character of King Lear himself, reflecting on the nature of beauty and vanity.

The phrase "made mouths in a glass" refers to the act of looking at oneself in a mirror and making faces or expressions. In this case, King Lear is commenting on the idea that even the most beautiful women cannot resist the temptation to admire themselves in a mirror and perhaps even indulge in a bit of vanity.

This quote speaks to the theme of appearance versus reality that is prevalent throughout Shakespeare's works. In "King Lear," the characters are often deceived by outward appearances and struggle to see the truth beneath the surface. The idea that even the most beautiful women cannot resist the urge to admire themselves in a mirror suggests that beauty is often superficial and can be deceiving.

Furthermore, the quote can also be interpreted as a commentary on the fleeting nature of beauty. Just as a reflection in a mirror is temporary and can easily be distorted or changed, so too is beauty something that is transient and can fade over time. Shakespeare often explores the theme of mortality and the passage of time in his works, and this quote is no exception.

Overall, the quote "For there was never yet fair woman but she made mouths in a glass" is a reflection on the nature of beauty, vanity, and the transient nature of appearances. It serves as a reminder that true beauty lies not in outward appearances, but in the content of one's character and the ability to see beyond the surface.