The peoples of the Mediterranean began to emerge from barbarism when they learned to cultivate the olive and the vine.
ThucydidesRead
It is a general rule of human nature that people despise those who treat them well, and look up to those who make no concessions.
Interpretation
What this quote means
People often admire those who are assertive and unyielding, while resenting those who are kind and accommodating.
This quote by Thucydides reflects the paradox in human behavior where kindness is sometimes met with disdain and a lack of appreciation. It suggests that individuals tend to respect those who are firm and unwavering, viewing them as strong, while they may take the kindness of others for granted, perceiving it as weakness or insincerity. This insight reveals the complexities of social interactions and the often contradictory nature of human relations.
Themes
Human NatureAdmirationKindnessStrengthSocial Dynamics
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion about leadership styles, someone might quote Thucydides to highlight the importance of assertiveness.
More from Thucydides
All quotes βWe Greeks are lovers of the beautiful, yet simple in our tastes, and we cultivate the mind without loss of manliness.
ThucydidesRead
If it had not been for the pernicious power of envy, men would not so have exalted vengeance above innocence and profit above justice... in these acts of revenge on others, men take it upon themselves to begin the process of repealing those general laws of humanity which are there to give a hope of salvation to all who are in distress.
ThucydidesRead
Thucydides, an Athenian, wrote the history of the war between the Peloponnesians and the Athenians, he began at the moment that it broke out, believing that it would be a great war, and more memorable than any that had preceded it.
ThucydidesRead
Some legislators only wish to vengeance against a particular enemy. Others only look out for themselves. They devote very little time on the consideration of any public issue. They think that no harm will come from their neglect. They act as if it is always the business of somebody else to look after this or that. When this selfish notion is entertained by all, the commonwealth slowly begins to decay.
ThucydidesRead
Remember that this greatness was won by men with courage, with knowledge of their duty, and with a sense of honor in action.
ThucydidesRead
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