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"cast beyond ourselves"
Metaphor
Act 2,
Scene 1
Lines 111-117

An explanation of the phrase “cast beyond ourselves” in Act 2, Scene 1 of myShakespeare’s Hamlet.

Polonius

I am sorry that with better heed and judgment
I had not quoted him. I fear he did but trifle
And meant to wreck thee. But beshrew my jealousy!    
It seems it is as proper to our age
To cast beyond ourselves in our opinions,    
As it is common for the younger sort
To lack discretion. Come, go we to the king.

In this metaphor, old men who are overconfident in their opinions are compared to overeager hunting dogs who run past an animal’s track and don’t pick up the scent.