Meaning: The quote "It profits a man nothing to give his soul for the whole world... but for Wales!" is a line from the play "A Man for All Seasons" by Robert Bolt. The play, first performed in 1960, tells the story of Sir Thomas More, a 16th-century English lawyer, statesman, and philosopher who clashes with King Henry VIII over his refusal to sanction the king's divorce from Catherine of Aragon and his subsequent break with the Roman Catholic Church.

The context of this particular quote is a conversation between Sir Thomas More and Richard Rich, a young and ambitious man who is willing to compromise his integrity for material gain and power. More is warning Rich about the consequences of sacrificing one's principles for worldly wealth and power. The quote underscores the idea that compromising one's soul, or moral integrity, for any worldly gain is ultimately futile and self-destructive.

The significance of the line lies in its ironic and humorous tone. More, a man of deep moral conviction, uses this witty remark to highlight the absurdity of sacrificing one's soul for something as seemingly insignificant as Wales. The line also serves as a commentary on the human tendency to prioritize material gains over spiritual or ethical values, often to our own detriment.

In the broader context of the play, the quote reflects More's unwavering commitment to his principles and his refusal to compromise his beliefs, even at the cost of his own life. More's steadfastness in the face of political and personal pressure makes him a symbol of moral integrity and ethical fortitude.

The play "A Man for All Seasons" has been celebrated for its exploration of the conflict between individual conscience and state authority, as well as the timeless moral dilemmas it presents. The quote "It profits a man nothing to give his soul for the whole world... but for Wales!" encapsulates the play's central themes of moral courage, the price of integrity, and the clash between personal beliefs and societal expectations.

Robert Bolt, the playwright behind this iconic line, was known for his thought-provoking and morally complex works. "A Man for All Seasons" is considered one of his most influential and enduring plays, having been adapted into a successful film and earning numerous accolades, including the Tony Award for Best Play and the Academy Award for Best Picture.

In conclusion, the quote "It profits a man nothing to give his soul for the whole world... but for Wales!" from Robert Bolt's "A Man for All Seasons" serves as a poignant reminder of the futility of sacrificing one's moral integrity for worldly gain. It encapsulates the play's exploration of moral courage and the enduring relevance of ethical principles in the face of political and social pressures. More than just a clever and ironic line, it is a timeless commentary on the human condition and the enduring value of moral steadfastness.