Proud Shakespeare Quotes
Shakespeare quotes about gender and sexuality, and positive affirmations for LGBTQ+ communities
Shakespeare's works are as relevant to 21st century audiences as they were to 16th century ones because he knew the true meaning and complexities of life. These well-known quotes reflect the ethos of our Proud Shakespeare initiative which focuses on reinterpreting our collections and services as we support, celebrate and reflect on the continued impact of LGBTQ+ communities, including our audiences, staff and volunteers.
This above all - to thine own self be true
— Hamlet Act 1 Scene 3
We are such stuff as dreams are made on
— The Tempest, Act 4 Scene 1
...it is not enough to speak, but to speak true.
— A Midsummer Night's Dream, Act 5 Scene 1
But come what may, I do adore thee so that danger shall seem sport, and I will go
— Twelfth Night, Act 2 Scene 1
Were kisses all the joys in bed, One woman would another wed.
— Sonnets to Sundry Notes of Music
And for a woman wert thou first created, Till nature as she wrought thee fell a-doting, And by addition me of thee defeated By adding one thing to my purpose nothing.
— Sonnet 20
...we know what we are, but know not what we may be.
— Hamlet, Act 4 Scene 5
Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt.
— Measure for Measure, Act 1 Scene 4
What’s past is prologue.
— The Tempest, Act 2 Scene 1
Let me be that I am, and seek not to alter me
— Much ado about Nothing, Act 1 Scene 3
I had rather hear my dog bark at a crow than a man swear he loves me.
— Much ado about Nothing, Act 1 Scene 1