What is honour? a word. What is in that word honour? what is that honour? air. A trim reckoning! Who hath it? he that died o' Wednesday. Doth he feel it? no. Doth he hear it? no.
The quote from Shakespeare's "King Henry IV, Part 1" reflects on the nature of honor and its elusive qualities. The speaker questions the meaning and substance of honor, suggesting that it is merely a word devoid of true significance. The idea that honor is "air" indicates its lack of tangible value, raising doubts about its importance in life and death.
By referencing someone who has died recently, the speaker implies that honor holds no real power or awareness after death. This contemplation leads to a cynical view of honor, as it becomes clear that while it may be revered or discussed, it ultimately does not provide any comfort or understanding to the dead, highlighting the transient and perhaps hollow nature of societal values.