Meaning: This quote, "There was never yet fair woman but she made mouths in a glass," is from the play "King Lear" by William Shakespeare. In this particular line, the character of King Lear is expressing a cynical view of women, suggesting that all women, regardless of their beauty, indulge in vanity by admiring themselves in a mirror. The term "making mouths" refers to making faces or expressions, and the use of a glass refers to a mirror.

Shakespeare's portrayal of women in his plays often reflects the societal attitudes and expectations of his time. In the Elizabethan era, women were often perceived as vain and shallow, and their worth was often based on their physical appearance. This quote reflects the idea that women, regardless of their beauty, are inclined to be self-absorbed and preoccupied with their looks.

However, it's important to note that this quote should be viewed in the context of the character and the time in which it was written. Shakespeare's works often contain complex and multifaceted characters, and it's possible that this line is more a reflection of King Lear's own biases and insecurities rather than a generalization about all women.

In modern times, this quote may be viewed as outdated and misogynistic, as it perpetuates the stereotype of women being overly concerned with their physical appearance. It's crucial to approach Shakespeare's works with an awareness of the historical context in which they were written and to critically examine the themes and messages they convey.

Shakespeare's portrayal of women is a subject of ongoing study and debate among scholars and literary critics. While some argue that his female characters are often complex and multifaceted, others criticize the playwright for perpetuating gender stereotypes and limitations. In the case of the quote in question, it's essential to consider the broader context of the play and the character who utters these words, as well as the societal norms and expectations of the time.

In conclusion, the quote "There was never yet fair woman but she made mouths in a glass" reflects a cynical view of women's vanity and preoccupation with their appearance. It is a line from Shakespeare's "King Lear" and should be examined within the context of the play, the character who speaks it, and the societal attitudes of the time. While it may perpetuate stereotypes about women, it also provides an opportunity to explore the complexities of gender representation in Shakespeare's works.