Shakespeare's England

Today, 23rd April, marks the death of William Shakespeare, who died in 1616. So let's have a few quotes from the Bard.

"King John", Act 5 scene 7

This England never did, nor never shall,
Lie at the proud foot of a conqueror.

"King Richard II", Act 2 scene 1

This royal throne of kings, this sceptred isle,
This earth of majesty, this seat of Mars,
This other Eden, demi-paradise,
This fortress built by Nature for herself
Against infection and the hand of war,
This happy breed of men, this little world,
This precious stone set in the silver sea,
Which serves it in the office of a wall
Or as a moat defensive to a house,
Against the envy of less happier lands,--
This blessed plot, this earth, this realm, this England.

"Henry V" Act 3 Scene 1

"I see you stand like greyhounds in the slips, straining upon the start.
The game's afoot: Follow your spirit, and upon this charge cry 'God for Harry, England, and Saint George!"

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