I would rather live a short life of glory than a long one of obscurity.
Alexander The GreatRead
There is something noble in hearing myself ill spoken of, when I am doing well.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the idea that one can rise above criticism when they know they are acting morally and rightly.
Alexander the Great's quote suggests that there is a certain dignity or nobility in maintaining one's integrity and self-worth in the face of negative comments or misinterpretations by others. It conveys the idea that external judgment does not diminish one's value or the goodness of their actions, especially when they are aligned with their principles and purpose. In essence, it speaks to the strength of character required to endure criticism while remaining steadfast in one's commitment to doing what is right.
Themes
NobilityCriticismIntegrityActionPrinciples
In practice
Example use cases
During a leadership seminar, one might cite this quote to inspire resilience in facing detractors.
More from Alexander The Great
All quotes βAre you still to learn that the end and perfection of our victories is to avoid the vices and infirmities of those whom we subdue?
Alexander The GreatRead
Now you fear punishment and beg for your lives, so I will let you free, if not for any other reason so that you can see the difference between a Greek king and a barbarian tyrant, so do not expect to suffer any harm from me. A king does not kill messengers.
Alexander The GreatRead
In the end, when it's over, all that matters is what you've done.
Alexander The GreatRead
But truly, if I were not Alexander, I would be Diogenes.
Alexander The GreatRead
A tomb now suffices him for whom the whole world was not sufficient.
Alexander The GreatRead
Similar quotes
The question of souls is oldβwe demand our bodies, now. We are tired of promises, god is deaf, and his church is our worst enemy.
Voltairine De CleyreRead
Poverty is bitter, but it has no harder pang than that it makes men ridiculous.
JuvenalRead
People do not think in English or Chinese or Apache; they think in a language of thought. This language of thought probably looks a bit like all these languagesBut compared with any given language, mentalese must be richer in some ways and simpler in others.
Steven PinkerRead
If we take the poor away from the Gospel, we won't be able to understand the whole message of Jesus Christ.
Pope FrancisRead
Some men are like musical glasses; to produce their finest tones you must keep them wet.
Samuel Taylor ColeridgeRead
There is no connection between the political ideas of our educated class and the deep places of the imagination.
Lionel TrillingRead