What is the meaning of the quote from the play Richard III No beast so fierce but knows some touch of pity but I know none and therefore am no beast?

Answer 1

Pity may imply a feeling or attitude of condescension. Mercy, forgiveness and compassion do not. Individuals of lessor mind may satisfy themselves with a feeling of superiority and "feel sorry" for gentler and more giving persons.

So you see that the lessor minded person, or beast, will pity some others if they can be seen as "thoughtful and kindly" by those who do not understand better themselves. You can identify this trait complex as those who do this will pick and choose at their liking and convenience. This is personal, conditional and exclusive behaviour. It is aimed at getting attention on the shirttails of the trials others experience through life.

Compassion is unconditional, just unconditional. It is done by those who have developed character as a means of diminishing personality and then can give freely. No questions asked.

So if you do not pity but freely give compassion and mercy you are no beast. Many hard won victories will free you from your vanities and insecurities. Then you will understand this old text.

Answer 2

Just reading the quote, and not knowing anything else, it reads to me that he is worst than a beast. Even the most fierce beast has pity. Not having any makes him/us worse, or human.

Answer 3

As he has never none himself to be pitied .he is lest than the most fierce of beast