Shakespeare Quote In Beauty And The Beast
Introduction
Beauty and the Beast is a timeless tale that has been adapted into various forms of media over the years. One particular adaptation that stands out is the 2017 live-action film directed by Bill Condon. This film features a quote from William Shakespeare that adds depth to the story and resonates with audiences. In this article, we will explore the Shakespeare quote in Beauty and the Beast and its significance.
The Quote
The Shakespeare quote in Beauty and the Beast comes from the play Hamlet, Act I, Scene III. The quote is spoken by Polonius to his son Laertes as he prepares to send him off to France:
"This above all: to thine own self be true, And it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man."
The quote is often interpreted as a message of self-acceptance and authenticity. In the context of Beauty and the Beast, the quote is used to emphasize the importance of being true to oneself and not pretending to be someone else in order to fit in or gain acceptance.
Context in the Film
The Shakespeare quote is first introduced in the film when Belle's father, Maurice, is leaving for the fair. He tells Belle to be true to herself and not let anyone change who she is. Later in the film, Belle sings a reprise of the song "Belle" where she reflects on her life in the village and her desire for something more. The song ends with the lines:
"I want adventure in the great wide somewhere, I want it more than I can tell. And for once it might be grand, To have someone understand, I want so much more than they've got planned."
These lines echo the sentiment of the Shakespeare quote, emphasizing Belle's desire to be true to herself and follow her own dreams, rather than conforming to the expectations of others.
Significance of the Quote
The Shakespeare quote in Beauty and the Beast has resonated with audiences for centuries. It is a powerful message of self-acceptance and staying true to oneself, even in the face of adversity. In the context of the film, the quote emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and not sacrificing one's own identity for the sake of fitting in or gaining acceptance.
The quote also speaks to the theme of transformation in Beauty and the Beast. Both Belle and the Beast undergo significant transformations throughout the course of the film, but ultimately stay true to themselves and find happiness as a result.
Conclusion
The Shakespeare quote in Beauty and the Beast adds depth and meaning to the story. It is a powerful message of self-acceptance and staying true to oneself, even in the face of adversity. By incorporating this quote into the film, the creators of Beauty and the Beast were able to emphasize the importance of being true to oneself and staying true to one's own dreams and desires.