Saying: Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind; And therefore is wing'd Cupid painted blind
Info
- Title: Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind; And therefore is wing'd Cupid painted blind
- Type: Sayings
- Category: { Love and Romance }
- Print: Download as PDF for printing
Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind; And therefore is wing'd Cupid painted blind. This statement by William Shakespeare accurately describes that true love is defined not by outward appearance, but by inner feelings. Shakespeare composed this quote in the historical context of his play "A Midsummer Night’s Dream," poetically expressing love as fundamentally an experience of the mind.
Origin and Usage of the Quote
This quote was demonstrably authored by William Shakespeare and originates from his play "A Midsummer Night’s Dream," written originally in English: "Love looks not with the eyes, but with the mind; And therefore is wing'd Cupid painted blind." Shakespeare wrote this play presumably between 1594 and 1596 during the early phase of his literary career. In the play, the character Helena uses these lines to illustrate that love is not guided by outward appearances but by inner mental connection. The quote frequently appears in literary and cultural contexts, such as speeches, essays, and theatrical productions.
Meaning and Interpretation of the Quote
The central idea of this quote emphasizes that true love exists independently of outward appearances and manifests solely within the mind.
- Emotional depth matters more than visual perception.
- Mental connection stands at the heart of love.
- Cupid’s metaphorical blindness symbolizes inner rather than external perception.
- Rejection of superficiality; love is defined beyond visual impressions.
- Cultural significance as a widely quoted and acknowledged phrase in literature.
- Universality – genuine emotions arise through the mind, not through visual stimuli.
Further detailed information can be found on the official website of the Royal Shakespeare Company in the section on famous quotes from "A Midsummer Night’s Dream".