Meaning & Analysis
A monarch's role inherently involves performing good deeds and governing justly, while simultaneously being subjected to unfair criticism and slander from others.
Insights
The Burden of Leadership
The proverb serves as a broader metaphor for the burdens of any leadership role. It suggests that authority and responsibility inevitably attract scrutiny and negative feedback, regardless of the leader's positive actions or intentions.
Virtue and Ingratitude
It speaks to the philosophical concept that virtuous actions are not always met with praise or gratitude. A person of integrity must continue to do what is right, even when faced with misunderstanding, envy, or malicious gossip.
The Need for Emotional Fortitude
The proverb highlights the necessity of emotional fortitude for anyone in a position of power. It advises developing a resilience to criticism and focusing on duty rather than seeking popular approval.
Action vs. Perception
It illustrates the inherent tension between action and perception. A leader's righteous actions can be easily distorted by others, emphasizing that one cannot control their own reputation, only their own conduct.
Historical Ideals of Rulership
This proverb reflects a core tenet of 'mirror for princes' literature, popular in the Renaissance, which offered guidance on ideal kingship. The reference to Alexander the Great situates this wisdom in a classical tradition, emphasizing that a ruler's virtue is tested by their ability to withstand public censure and remain focused on just governance.
Psychological Resilience
The proverb resonates with Stoic philosophy, which teaches that one should focus on virtuous action (what is in one's control) and remain indifferent to external opinions (what is not). It is a psychological blueprint for leaders to maintain internal stability and moral clarity amidst the inevitable noise of public disapproval.
Modern Leadership and Scrutiny
In an age of constant digital feedback and social media scrutiny, the proverb serves as a timeless reminder for modern leaders that public criticism is an unavoidable part of their role. The challenge remains to act with integrity ('do well') without being derailed by the constant stream of negativity ('hear ill').
Rhetorical Devices
Antithesis
The proverb is built on the stark contrast between the positive action 'do well' and the negative reception 'hear ill'. This rhetorical opposition creates a memorable and powerful statement about the paradox of leadership.
Parallelism
The parallel grammatical structure of 'to do well' and '[to] hear ill' lends the proverb a balanced, rhythmic quality that makes it concise and impactful.
Symbolism
The 'KING' serves as a powerful symbol for any individual in a position of authority, responsibility, or high visibility, extending the proverb's wisdom beyond literal royalty to all forms of leadership.
Transcription
Quotations
It is gyuen to a kynge, though he do neuer so well yet to be euyll spoken of.
For the good and vertuous Prince ought to graffe in their memory the wise sayings which they reade, and forget the cankred iniuries and wrongs which are done them.
The same Alexander understanding that some misreported him, went not about any way to revenge it, but answered sagely, and with a Princely modestie, that it belonged to a King to doe well, and heare yll.
Related Proverbs
Original Scan
Used under CC BY-NC 3.0.