What is the meaning of Sweet are the uses of adversity Which like the toad ugly and venomous Wears yet a precious jewel in his head?

Answer 1

The Duke says this in Act II Scene 1 of As You Like It. You must understand that a number of legendary beliefs about the anatomy and behaviour of animals had been passed down from the time of the middle ages through besitiaries, collections of the legendary "facts" about animals. Some of these we still recognize, such as the idea that ostriches put their heads underground when they are in danger, or that elephants are afraid of mice, or that bears are born as unformed lumps and their mothers have to "lick them into shape" with their tongues.
One such legend was that toads grew precious jewels inside their heads (and also that they were poisonous, which most of them aren't). So the Duke here is using the toad's situation as a metaphor for adversity. Adversity, he says, is a good thing. Even though, like a toad, it appears ugly and poisonous on the outside, inside is a precious jewel. It means exactly the same thing as saying that every cloud has a silver lining.

Answer 2

This statement contains a profound truth -- adversity or difficulty brings the best in man as he learns to cope with his trials. Man's real worth is put to test in adversity. It develops fortitude and courage in him.

Difficulties are in fact gifts bestowed by god upon man. It during these times that he realizes what he has missed by keeping himself confined to the life of comfort. He learns the value of life.

A student who gives up simple pleasures to focus on his studies comes out in flying colours. The little joys he has sacrificed yield him abundant happiness. In times of adversity people discover their true friends as the saying goes " Prosperity makes friends and adversity tries them ".

Adversity trains us to appreciate the lessons of the life. It brings out the innate qualities of one's

personality, of which one is ignorant.

Thus, adversity does not always symbolize pain or difficulty. If one looks at the brighter side it actually serves to strengthen character and will power. It brings to the fore the dormant wisdom of man, for, as the saying goes 'adversity is a blessing in disguise'.

Answer 3

It means that in every hardship, or every trial, there is gain in the long run. Basically, its not for nothing, and something good will come out of it.