The hand that hath made you fair hath made you good

The hand that hath made you fair hath made you good

In William Shakespeare's play "Measure for Measure," the line "The hand that hath made you fair hath made you good" is spoken by the character Claudio to his sister Isabella. This line is a reflection of the belief that physical beauty is often associated with moral goodness. In this context, Claudio is trying to convince Isabella to sacrifice her virtue in order to save his life.

The idea that physical beauty is a reflection of inner goodness is a common theme in Shakespeare's works. In many of his plays, characters who are described as beautiful are also portrayed as virtuous and noble. This connection between physical appearance and moral character is a recurring motif in Shakespeare's writing, reflecting the beliefs and values of his time.

However, the line "The hand that hath made you fair hath made you good" can also be interpreted in a more nuanced way. It suggests that beauty and goodness are not necessarily linked, but rather that they are both gifts from a higher power. In this sense, the line can be seen as a reminder that all individuals are created by a divine hand and are therefore inherently valuable and worthy of respect.

Furthermore, the line can also be read as a commentary on the nature of appearance versus reality. Just because someone is outwardly beautiful does not necessarily mean that they are good or virtuous. Shakespeare often explores the theme of deception and illusion in his plays, and this line can be seen as a reflection of the idea that things are not always as they seem.

Overall, the line "The hand that hath made you fair hath made you good" is a complex and thought-provoking statement that raises questions about the relationship between beauty and goodness, appearance and reality, and the nature of human nature. Shakespeare's exploration of these themes continues to resonate with audiences today, making his work timeless and enduring.