Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
It is the character of a brave and resolute man not to be ruffled by adversity and not to desert his post.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True bravery involves maintaining composure in difficult situations and staying committed to one’s responsibilities.
In this quote, Cicero emphasizes that a brave and determined individual remains steadfast when faced with challenges and does not abandon their duties. The essence of courage lies in resilience—facing adversity head-on and standing firm in one’s commitments, rather than succumbing to fear or pressure.
Themes
CourageAdversityBraveryCommitmentResilience
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about overcoming challenges at a corporate retreat.
More from Marcus Tullius Cicero
All quotes →Those wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.
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Orators are most vehement when their cause is weak.
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Nothing contributes to the entertainment of the reader more, than the change of times and the vicissitudes of fortune.
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No one has the right to be sorry for himself for a misfortune that strikes everyone.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Advice in old age is foolish; for what can be more absurd than to increase our provisions for the road the nearer we approach to our journey's end.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
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