Art is the daughter of freedom.
Friedrich SchillerRead
The average estimate themselves by what they do, the above average by what they are.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that people of average ability evaluate themselves based on their actions, while those who are above average assess their worth based on their character and potential.
Friedrich Schiller's quote highlights a profound distinction between how individuals perceive their self-worth. Those who consider themselves average often gauge their value through their accomplishments and actions, focusing on tangible results. In contrast, those with higher aspirations and abilities evaluate themselves through their inherent qualities, values, and the potential they possess. This perspective offers a deeper understanding of self-worth, urging individuals to look beyond mere achievements and recognize the importance of character in self-assessment.
Themes
Self-WorthCharacterPerceptionAverageAbove Average
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal growth.
More from Friedrich Schiller
All quotes βThere is no such thing as chance; and what seem to us merest accident springs from the deepest source of destiny.
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Who dares nothing, need hope for nothing.
Friedrich SchillerRead
While the womanly god demands our veneration, the godlike woman kindles our love; but while we allow ourselves to melt in the celestial loveliness, the celestial self-sufficiency holds us back in awe.
Friedrich SchillerRead
As noble Art has survived noble nature, so too she marches ahead of it, fashioning and awakening by her inspiration. Before Truth sends her triumphant light into the depths of the heart, imagination catches its rays, and the peaks of humanity will be glowing when humid night still lingers in the valleys.
Friedrich SchillerRead
Wise to resolve, patient to perform.
Friedrich SchillerRead
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