Thirukkural Chapter 102 - Shame

Couplet 1011 
To shrink abashed from evil deed is 'generous shame';
Other is that of bright-browed one of virtuous fame
Explanation
True modesty is the fear of (evil) deeds; all other modesty is (simply) the bashfulness of virtuous maids

Couplet 1012 
Food, clothing, and other things alike all beings own;
By sense of shame the excellence of men is known
Explanation
Food, clothing and the like are common to all men but modesty is peculiar to the good

Couplet 1013 
All spirits homes of flesh as habitation claim,
And perfect virtue ever dwells with shame
Explanation
As the body is the abode of the spirit, so the excellence of modesty is the abode of perfection

Couplet 1014 
And is not shame an ornament to men of dignity?
Without it step of stately pride is piteous thing to see
Explanation
Is not the modesty ornament of the noble ? Without it, their haughtiness would be a pain (to others)

Couplet 1015 
As home of virtuous shame by all the world the men are known,
Who feel ashamed for others, guilt as for their own
Explanation
The world regards as the abode of modesty him who fear his own and other's guilt

Couplet 1016 
Unless the hedge of shame inviolate remain,
For men of lofty soul the earth's vast realms no charms retain
Explanation
The great make modesty their barrier (of defence) and not the wide world

Couplet 1017 
The men of modest soul for shame would life an offering make,
But ne'er abandon virtuous shame for life's dear sake
Explanation
The modest would rather lose their life for the sake of modesty than lose modesty for the sake of life

Couplet 1018 
Though know'st no shame, while all around asha med must be:
Virtue will shrink away ashamed of thee
Explanation
Virtue is likely to forsake him who shamelessly does what others are ashamed of

Couplet 1019 
'Twill race consume if right observance fail;
'Twill every good consume if shamelessness prevail
Explanation
Want of manners injures one's family; but want of modesty injures one's character

Couplet 1020 
'Tis as with strings a wooden puppet apes life's functions, when
Those void of shame within hold intercourse with men
Explanation
The actions of those who are without modesty at heart are like those of puppet moved by a string