Meaning & Analysis
One should only measure or evaluate oneself against one's equals or peers ('compeers'), and avoid making comparisons with those of a higher or lower social station or level of ability.
Insights
Respect for Social Order
The proverb functions as a guideline for maintaining social harmony by respecting established hierarchies. Comparing oneself to a superior is an act of insolence, while comparing to an inferior is boastful; both disrupt social order.
Pragmatic Ambition
It serves as a cautionary principle for managing ambition. By focusing on peers, one can set realistic, achievable goals. Aiming too high by comparing oneself to 'betters' can lead to frustration and failure.
Avoiding Self-Inflicted Misery
On a psychological level, the proverb is a recipe for contentment. Constantly comparing oneself to those who are more successful or accomplished inevitably leads to feelings of inadequacy, envy, and dissatisfaction.
The Basis of Fair Judgment
The proverb implies that meaningful evaluation and competition can only occur between equals. Comparing individuals of vastly different skill or status is an unfair and unproductive exercise.
Social Hierarchy and Decorum
Rooted in a society with rigid class structures, the proverb originally served as a warning against social presumption. To compare oneself to a superior ('better') was an act of arrogance that challenged the established social order, as seen in the 16th-century quotations.
Psychological Prudence
The proverb is a folk precursor to the modern psychological concept of social comparison theory. It astutely advises against the pitfalls of 'upward comparison' (which can cause envy and inadequacy) and 'downward comparison' (which can breed arrogance), advocating for realistic self-assessment among peers.
Modern Relevance and Mental Health
While historically a tool for social control, the proverb's meaning has evolved. In contemporary culture, it is reinterpreted as advice for maintaining mental well-being by avoiding the anxiety and dissatisfaction that arise from comparing one's own life to the curated successes of others, especially on social media.
Rhetorical Devices
Imperative Mood
The proverb is structured as a direct command (an imperative), giving it an authoritative and advisory tone.
Archaic Diction
The use of archaic terms like 'thy' and 'compeers' lends the proverb a sense of traditional wisdom and formality.
Alliteration
The repetition of the hard 'c' sound in 'Compare' and 'Compeers' creates a memorable, rhythmic quality that enhances its impact as a piece of folk wisdom.
Transcription
Quotations
And beware that he compare not with suche as be his betters.
I shall teche hym what is to compare hymselfe with his better.
Shakespeare Citations
Art thou good at these kickshawses, knight? —As any man in Illyria, whatsoever he be, under the degree of my betters.
Cross References
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
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