The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.
TacitusRead
The brave and bold persist even against fortune; the timid and cowardly rush to despair though fear alone.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Brave individuals face challenges head-on, while the fearful often give up easily.
This quote by Tacitus emphasizes the contrasting behaviors of the brave and the timid in the face of adversity. While those who are courageous and bold strive to overcome obstacles regardless of their difficulties or risks, the fearful and cowardly tend to succumb to despair and hopelessness, often allowing their fears to dictate their outcomes. It serves as a reminder that oneβs approach to challenges can significantly influence their destiny.
Themes
CourageBraveryFearAdversityPersistence
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech to encourage students to face their fears.
More from Tacitus
All quotes βIn private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
TacitusRead
Great empires are not maintained by timidity.
TacitusRead
Things are not to be judged good or bad merely because the public think so.
TacitusRead
So obscure are the greatest events, as some take for granted any hearsay, whatever its source, others turn truth into falsehood, and both errors find encouragement with posterity.
TacitusRead
If you would know who controls you see who you may not criticise.
TacitusRead
Similar quotes
Our country's honor calls upon us for a vigorous and manly exertion; and if we now shamefully fail, we shall become infamous to the whole world.
George WashingtonRead
It's been a struggle for me because I had a chance to be white and refused.
Richard PryorRead
When guns are outlawed, only the Government will have guns. The Government - and a few outlaws. If that happens, you can count me among the outlaws.
Edward AbbeyRead
I'm a tough old broad from Brooklyn. Don't try to make me into something I'm not. If you want someone to tiptoe down the Barkley staircase in crinoline and politely ask where the cattle went, get another girl.
Barbara StanwyckRead
The two great risks are risking too much but also risking too little. That's for each person to decide. For me, not risking anything is worse than death. By far.
Jimmy ChinRead
Alas, not me, lord!" she said. "Shadow lies on me still. Look not to me for healing! I am a shieldmaiden and my hand is ungentle.
J. R. R. TolkienRead