The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.
TacitusRead
The brave and bold persist even against fortune; the timid and cowardly rush to despair though fear alone.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Brave individuals face challenges head-on, while the fearful often give up easily.
This quote by Tacitus emphasizes the contrasting behaviors of the brave and the timid in the face of adversity. While those who are courageous and bold strive to overcome obstacles regardless of their difficulties or risks, the fearful and cowardly tend to succumb to despair and hopelessness, often allowing their fears to dictate their outcomes. It serves as a reminder that one’s approach to challenges can significantly influence their destiny.
Themes
CourageBraveryFearAdversityPersistence
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech to encourage students to face their fears.
More from Tacitus
All quotes →In private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
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Great empires are not maintained by timidity.
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Things are not to be judged good or bad merely because the public think so.
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So obscure are the greatest events, as some take for granted any hearsay, whatever its source, others turn truth into falsehood, and both errors find encouragement with posterity.
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If you would know who controls you see who you may not criticise.
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