Meaning & Analysis
To sleep so soundly and without worry that one can rest on one side (on one ear) and then turn over and sleep equally well on the other, implying a state of being completely untroubled and free from the need to listen for danger.
Insights
Complete Peace of Mind
The proverb symbolizes a state of complete security and peace of mind, where one is entirely free from anxiety, fear, or any pressing concerns that might disrupt one's rest or composure.
Carefree Indifference
It can describe a state of carefree indifference or deliberate ignorance of potential problems. A person 'sleeping on both ears' is so unconcerned that they are effectively oblivious to their surroundings.
Unshakable Trust
The ability to sleep so soundly implies a profound trust in one's circumstances or in the protection of others. It is a metaphor for the assurance that allows one to relinquish vigilance.
A Clear Conscience
Figuratively, it suggests having a clear conscience. A person untroubled by guilt or moral conflict can rest peacefully, secure in their own actions.
Classical Ideal of Tranquility
Rooted in classical antiquity, as shown by the reference from Erasmus, this proverb links physical rest with mental tranquility. It reflects the philosophical ideal of 'ataraxia' or a mind free from disturbance, suggesting that true security is not just physical but psychological.
Psychology of Security
The proverb taps into the fundamental human need for security and the psychological relief of letting one's guard down. The act of blocking one's hearing while sleeping is an act of trust in one's environment, and the ability to do so on 'either ear' signifies absolute, unworried confidence.
Moral and Physical Peace
The historical quotations illustrate its use in expressing a state of being untroubled by conscience or external threats. It's a versatile metaphor for being free from any 'scruple' or danger that might 'break' one's sleep, highlighting a deep-seated desire for untroubled rest.
Rhetorical Devices
Sensory Imagery
The physical image of sleeping soundly on one ear, then the other, creates a powerful and easily understood metaphor for the abstract state of total security and mental peace.
Hyperbole
The phrase 'on both ears' is a form of hyperbole, as one cannot physically sleep on both simultaneously. This exaggeration effectively emphasizes the absolute and complete nature of the security being described.
Synecdoche
The 'ears', our organs for hearing and vigilance, serve as a synecdoche for the entire state of being alert and on guard. To 'sleep on both' is to metaphorically shut down all systems of worry.
Transcription
Quotations
In utramvis dormire aurem, est animo ocioso, securo, vacuoque esse.
I lyke one that sleapeth on bothe his eares .i. than had I nothynge to breake my slepe with.
At night secure dormiunt in vtranque aurem.
Thy store will let thee sleepe on either eare.
Masques at Court, p. 347: For they sleepe in either eare.
Sleep you Secure on either ear; the burthen’s your’s To entertain him, mine to bring him hither.
Let him set his heart at rest; I will remove this scruple out of his mind, that he may sleep securely upon both ears.
Cross References
- See OTTO, no. 211.
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
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