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Quotation from Six Characters in Search of an Author and Other Plays by Luigi Pirandello

“woe to him who doesn't know how to wear his mask, be he king or Pope!”

Luigi Pirandello (spoken by Henry IV)

Six Characters in Search of an Author and Other Plays, Henry IV, Act I, trans. Edward Storer

Portrait of Luigi Pirandello

In the penitent's sack before Canossa, Henry lectures his visitors on the political wisdom of roles.

Citation: "woe to him who doesn't know how to wear his mask, be he king or Pope!" — Luigi Pirandello, Six Characters in Search of an Author and Other Plays, Henry IV, Act I, trans. Edward Storer. (id pirandello-three-plays-q5)

Portrait: Luigi Pirandello 1932, Agence de presse Meurisse, Public domain.

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Quote card: woe to him who doesn't know how to wear his mask, be he king or Pope!