Refrain to-night;And that shall lend a kind of easinessTo the next abstinence, the next more easy;For use almost can change the stamp of nature,And either master the devil or throw him outWith wondrous potency.
In this excerpt from "Hamlet," the speaker suggests that by choosing to abstain tonight, it will become easier to do so in the future. This idea implies that the practice of self-control can alter one's inherent nature, making it simpler to resist temptation over time. The notion of repetition reinforcing strength reflects the interplay between habit and moral fortitude.
The concept that one can either confront their inner demons or cast them aside highlights the power of will. The text suggests that with determination, individuals can influence their own nature, mastering their impulses. Shakespeare emphasizes that through small acts of restraint, people can cultivate greater self-discipline and resilience.
