‘Lily-Livered’, Meaning & Context

The term “lily-livered” is a vivid and evocative expression meaning cowardly or lacking courage. It derives from the idea that the liver, historically believed to be the seat of courage and vitality, would be white or pale (like a lily) in a cowardly person, as opposed to being red and robust in a brave one. The color white has long been associated with fear and timidity, while red is often linked to bravery and boldness. By calling someone “lily-livered,” one implies that their liver lacks the healthy redness associated with bravery, instead resembling the pale hue of a lily, symbolizing cowardice and fear.

Furthermore, the lily flower itself, often white in colour, has connotations of purity and gentleness, traits that starkly contrast with the aggressive and bold nature expected of a courageous individual. Thus, calling someone “lily-livered” not only highlights their lack of bravery but also suggests a softness or weakness unsuitable for facing challenges or conflict. This term effectively combines a physical description with a moral judgment, creating a powerful insult that captures both the outward appearance and the inner character of the person being addressed.

Origin of the Term “Lily-Livered”

The origin of “lily-livered” can be traced back to ancient and medieval beliefs about human physiology. The liver was considered one of the most crucial organs, central to one’s emotions and character. This belief is rooted in humoral theory, which dominated medical thought from ancient Greece through the Renaissance. According to this theory, the body’s health and temperament were governed by four humours:

• Blood,
• Phlegm
• Black bile
• Yellow bile

Courage was linked to a sanguine humour, which corresponded to a healthy, red liver. Thus, a pale liver was metaphorically linked to a lack of courage.

The Shakespeare Connection

In Act V, Scene 3 of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Macbeth refers to one of his pages as a “lily-livered boy.” This expression, now considered archaic, provides a rich insight into both the language and cultural beliefs of the Elizabethan era. To understand the full implications of “lily-livered,” it is essential to delve into its meaning, origin, and how Shakespeare might have encountered and employed the term.

Shakespeare’s use of “lily-livered” likely reflects both his knowledge of contemporary medical theories and his acute sensitivity to language’s evocative power. His works are replete with references to humoral theory and the balance of bodily fluids, which were well-known concepts in Elizabethan England. Shakespeare, always a keen observer of human nature and societal norms, would have been familiar with the metaphorical implications of a “lily-livered” individual.

In the context of “Macbeth,” the insult carries significant weight. Macbeth, having committed regicide and plunged Scotland into chaos, is consumed by paranoia and desperation. By calling his page “lily-livered,” he projects his own fears and insecurities onto others, revealing his internal turmoil and diminishing sense of security. It also highlights the contrast between Macbeth’s earlier bravado and his current state of mind, steeped in fear and suspicion.

The term “lily-livered” is a fascinating example of how language evolves and reflects contemporary beliefs. Shakespeare’s use of the expression not only underscores his understanding of Elizabethan medical theory but also enriches the characterization within his plays. “Lily-livered” thus serves as a window into the psychological landscape of Shakespeare’s time.

Lily-livered

“Lily-livered” in Literature and Other Media

In Sir Walter Scott’s novel The Bride of Lammermoor the term “lily-livered” is spoken by the character Caleb Balderstone. Caleb uses it to berate the servants, expressing his frustration and dissatisfaction with their performance: “And what, in the foul fiend’s name, dost thou stand staring at, as if I were a necromancer? You sleep, you drone, you loiter—there is nothing done in the house to please me. Take this, ye lily-livered knaves!”

In films, “lily-livered” has been used in various genres, from Westerns to comedies, often in dialogue to emphasize a character’s cowardly nature. Classic Westerns, like those featuring John Wayne, frequently employ such terms to differentiate between the brave heroes and the less courageous villains or side characters.

In the realm of music, particularly within the folk and country genres, the term “lily-livered” has been used to vividly describe characters who lack courage or moral fortitude. Here are a couple of examples:

In the song Old Red by The Foghorn Stringband, the term “lily-livered” is used in the context of describing a cowardly and unreliable person. The lyrics paint a picture of someone who cannot be trusted, emphasizing their lack of bravery and moral strength:

“Old Red, you lily-livered coward,

Can’t you see the trouble you’ve caused?

Running scared, you broke your vow,

Left me here to face the law.”

This usage ties the term to themes of betrayal and cowardice, conveying strong emotions and connecting listeners to the rich, expressive tradition of folk music.

In Lily-Livered Love by The Corn Potato String Band, the phrase is used to describe an unfaithful lover who lacks the courage to be honest and true. The song critiques the lover’s weakness and untrustworthiness, underscoring their inability to maintain a sincere relationship:

“You promised me the world, but it was lily-livered love,

Running from the truth, like a scared little dove.

You left me in the lurch, when push came to shove,

Your lily-livered love was never enough.”

Here, the term “lily-livered” effectively conveys disappointment and frustration, resonating with listeners through its vivid and emotive language.