Shakespeare meme

[watervole]

There are many reasons I like this one, not least becasue of the brilliant Radio 4 history series 'This sceptered Isle'. THere's a new season about to start dealing with the British Empire, so watch out for it if you aren't already planning to listen.

This royal throne of kings, this sceptred isle,
This earth of majesty, this seat of Mars,
This other Eden, demi-paradise,
This fortress built by Nature for herself
Against infection and the hand of war,
This happy breed of men, this little world,
This precious stone set in the silver sea,
Which serves it in the office of a wall
Or as a moat defensive to a house,
Against the envy of less happier lands,—
This blessed plot, this earth, this realm, this England.
King Richard II. Act ii. Sc. 1.