poisoned chalice

[tony mcscaff]

where does the saying poisoned chalice come from

[dundurn]

The idea is a lot older - the image is of a communion cup which contains poisoned wine, so looks as though it should do you good, but does the opposite - but the most famous instance is in Macbeth

this even-handed justice
Commends the ingredients of our poisoned chalice
To our own lips. Act 1 Scene 7

[tony mcscaff]

thank you Dundurn

[VS Prasad]

The term "poisoned chalice" is applied to a thing or situation which appears to be good when it is received or experienced by someone, but then becomes or is found to be bad. The idea was referred to by Benedict of Nursia in one of his exorcisms, found on the Saint Benedict Medal: Vade retro Satana! Nunquam suade mihi vana! Sunt mala quae libas. Ipse venena bibas! (Begone Satan! Never tempt me with your vanities! What you offer me is evil. Drink the poison yourself!).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chalice_(cup)#Poi soned_Chalice

[tony mcscaff]

Thank you VS PRASADfor an in depth answer

[wakeover]

Incidentally, in A Yankee in the Court of King Arthur, Danny Kaye had to remember: The chalice from the Palace has the lotion with the potion,The vessel with the pestle is the brew that is true.