How we cite our quotes: (Act.Scene.Line)
Quote #4
WOLSEY
We must not stint
Our necessary actions in the fear
To cope malicious censurers, which ever,
As ravenous fishes, do a vessel follow
That is new trimmed, but benefit no further
Than vainly longing. What we oft do best,
By sick interpreters, once weak ones, is
Not ours, or not allowed; what worst, as oft,
Hitting a grosser quality, is cried up
For our best act. (1.2.90-99)
Irony, anyone? Yep, we're pretty sure that's the best way to describe Wolsey giving Henry advice about acting honorably without worrying about what others think. Wolsey is doing the exact opposite by playing the field for himself.
Quote #5
QUEEN KATHERINE
I do not like their coming, now I think on 't.
They should be good men, their affairs as righteous.
But all hoods make not monks. (3.1.24-26)
When the cardinals come to visit her, Katherine stands up to them. She calls them out for their lack of principles—something that no one else seems willing to do. She might have little power while she's going through her divorce, but she's not afraid to fight the cardinals in their own game. Bonus: we know she's got ethics, too.
Quote #6
WOLSEY
Love thyself last; cherish those hearts that hate thee.
Corruption wins not more than honesty.
Still in thy right hand carry gentle peace
To silence envious tongues. Be just, and fear not.
Let all the ends thou aim'st at be thy country's,
Thy God's, and truth's. Then if thou fall'st, O Cromwell,
Thou fall'st a blessèd martyr!
Serve the King. (3.2.523-530)
They say pride comes before the fall, and that's what happens with old Wolsey. He knows his star is falling, so he tries to help Cromwell out. It's interesting that his advice includes the deets about how to be honest and peaceful with everyone. If only Wolsey would have taken his own advice about being moral, he might have saved himself a lot of heartache.