If you must break the law, do it to seize power: in all other cases observe it.
Julius CaesarRead
Let me have men about me that are fat, Sleek-headed-men, and such as sleep o'nights; Yond Cassius has a lean and hungry look; he thinks too much; such men are dangerous.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote expresses a preference for followers who are content and stable rather than ambitious and overly critical individuals.
In this quote, Julius Caesar reflects on the qualities he values in his companions and followers. He suggests that he prefers men who are well-fed and at ease rather than those who are lean and eager for power, as the latter can be seen as threats due to their ambition and excessive contemplation. The line suggests that a leader seeks stability and loyalty over the potential dangers posed by those who are constantly seeking change or harboring discontent.
Themes
LeadershipDangerous MenAmbitionLoyaltyStability
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used to emphasize the importance of selecting stable and loyal team members during a leadership seminar.
More from Julius Caesar
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I have always reckoned the dignity of the republic of first importance and preferable to life.
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No one is so brave that he is not disturbed by something unexpected.
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