"Death lays his icy hand on kings."

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Source: 'The Contention of Ajax and Ulysses' (1659) act 1, sc. 3

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James Shirley

Playwright, Poet

James Shirley was a 17th-century English poet and playwright, known for his poignant reflections on life and mortality in works like 'The Contention of Ajax.'

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James Shirley Playwright, Poet

"The glories of our blood and state, Are shadows, not substantial things; There is no armour against fate, Death lays his icy hand on kings. Scepter and crown must tumble down, And, in the dust, be equal made With the poor crooked scythe and spade."

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James Shirley Playwright, Poet

"When our souls shall leave this dwelling, the glory of one fair and virtuous action is above all the 'scutcheons on our tomb, or silken banners over us."

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